Well, well, well… if the below fine of Mirror journo David McDonnell is to be believed, Nathaniel Clyne will be swapping St Mary’s for Old Trafford this summer! The reporter claimed on MUTV that the Southampton man’s transfer to Manchester United is a “done deal”, seemingly capping months of rumours suggesting that Louis van Gaal has been chasing the England international.
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His addition will solve the right-back problem at the club, but, despite their seeming top four certainty, United still have plenty of issues to solve. And with the Premier League giants linked with top class players on a seemingly daily basis, we think a few more of these deals should be done by now… and here are FIVE they may regret should they miss out on them.
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Memphis Depay
Having played under LVG for the Netherland side at the World Cup, United really do have the upper hand in the Memphis Depay race. Reports suggested last summer that Van Gaal had sounded out the player about a switch to Old Trafford this year, but. As it stands, Liverpool are thought to be just as likely a destination for the winger.
Depay has netted a staggering 19 Eredivisie goals for PSV Eindhoven this season from his wide role, and it’s fair to say the 21-year-old has a bright future.
Kevin Strootman
Another Netherlands ace consistently linked with United is Kevin Strootman. Unlike Depay, the midfielder missed out on a spot at the World Cup through injury, but despite his fitness issues – he’s currently on the treatment table again – Van Gaal is believed to remain keen.
A tenacious midfielder with top class passing ability, could be the ideal foil for Michael Carrick?
Roberto Firmino
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With 22 goals since the start of the 2013/14 Bundesliga season – as well as 19 assists – Roberto Firmino is certainly a dangerous attacking midfielder. Able to play on either flank of as the hipster ‘false nine’, the Brazilian is truly shining right now, which is shown by his presence in the Brazilian national side – the Selecao are hardly short of alternative options.
United are thought to be close to agreeing a deal worth close to £20m… but Liverpool are trying to beat them to the punch.
Mats Hummels
The big one! United fans all seem to want Mats Hummels, and it’s easy to see why. The German centre-back is widely considered to be one of the best players in his position on the planet, which was reflected by his authoritative showings as he helped his nation to World Cup glory last year.
United have been linked with him, but they’re facing competition from the likes of Arsenal.
Danny Ings
Not a box office signing, but Danny Ings would come with a genuine set of positive traits. A hard working willing runner with an eye for goal, his presence could be vital should Radamel Falcao and Robin van Persie be shipped out this summer.
United are believed to be leading Liverpool and Spurs in the running, but they could still miss out.
