Belgium's defender Toby Alderweireld (L) vies with Switzerland's forward Haris Seferovic (R) during the UEFA Nations League football match between Belgium and Switzerland, at the King Baudouin Stadium, in Brussels, on October 12, 2018. (Photo by JOHN THYS / AFP) (Photo credit should read JOHN THYS/AFP/Getty Images)
Manchester United have a new competitor in their pursuit for Alderweireld
Everyone knows that Manchester United are eager to get their hands on Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld. But the task just got difficult as Barcelona are keen on signing the Belgian as well.
The Red Devils had a terrible transfer window in the summer. United gaffer, Jose Mourinho wanted to bring in a central defender. Toby Alderweireld emerged to be the top target and talks had begun with Tottenham. Ed Woodward’s reluctance to pay his £60 million valuation has cost Manchester United heavily.
Sitting in 8th, the 13-time Premier League champions have looked weak in defence, conceding three goals to sides like Brighton and holding on to only 1 clean sheet. It will be a miracle to see Eric Bailly start for the Red Devils once again after his performance against Newcastle.
Club officials have agreed to provide the funds to Jose Mourinho next summer if he manages to secure Champions League football. Toby Alderweireld will be his top target once again and will cost him only £60 million this time around.
But there is some bad news. According to the Daily Mirror, Barcelona are interested in signing the Belgian International as a replacement for Gerard Pique. Manchester United will be going be head-to-head with one of the best sides in Europe if they are to land their dream target next summer.
Can United beat Barcelona in this transfer pursuit?
In recent years, a number of players have come on the radar of both clubs at the same time. Barcelona has beaten Manchester United on most occasions due to obvious reasons.
The Blaugrana have been dominant in Europe, barring from their recent shockers in the Champions League. La Liga doesn’t seem to be leaving Catalonia soon, considering they have 7 out of the last ten times.
On the other hand, Manchester United haven’t been able to cope up with the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson. The club has changed three managers since and the current one doesn’t look to last long.
But the Red Devils have an edge over Barcelona in this transfer race. Alderweireld has been in England for most of his career and the decision to move to Spain could push him to join Manchester United. Another advantage is that Manchester United have the cash to offer a lucrative offer to the central defender, which Barcelona are not known for.
It will be interesting how this transfer battle unfolds during the summer. Do you think Manchester United beat Barcelona? Comment below
