The transfer window doesn’t open for another three months, but already there are various rumours doing the rounds that suggests a lot of the top stars in world football could be about to swap clubs. Harry Kane and a proposed move to Manchester United is one of the biggest stories, but there are also a number of defenders that could be making moves this summer.
Harry Maguire’s move to Manchester United last summer has set the benchmark value for the best defenders at a very high level, which means should defenders move this summer, then the figures could be eye-watering. But, two defenders that are expected to explore new options this summer could include Chris Smalling and Samuel Umtiti, and while they won’t reach the £90 million that United paid last summer; they won’t come on the cheap.
Smalling Being Lined Up For Arsenal Move
Chris Smalling decided to move abroad last summer and joined AS Roma, where he has rediscovered his best form. His performances have been that good this season that he was also rumoured to be close to an England recall. However, the Coronavirus has dampened those hopes for the short-term, but a move back to England this summer could reignite his chances of being in Gareth Southgate’s squad for the European Championships in 2021.
One club that has been on the market for a new defender for a while now is Arsenal, and according to reports Mikel Arteta could be about to make his move for the defender. Smalling will likely attract a high price from Manchester United considering the season that he has enjoyed this campaign. United will also look to overprice the defender given that the buying club would be one that would be in direct competition with them next season for a Champions League place. However, Smalling could be the missing ingredient in the Arsenal formula.
United Looking At Barcelona Ace
Reports have also linked Samuel Umtiti with a move to Manchester United over the summer, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen to build on the momentum that his side have enjoyed so far this season. Defensively, United have been strong all season, but should they be looking to go to the next level then they may need some additional quality alongside Maguire in the back four. Solskjaer also isn’t decided on the formation that he wants to play at United, which means that he could instead revert to a back three.
Umtiti would fit perfectly into that system, with the Frenchman able to play on the left-hand side of the three with Maguire in the middle and either Victor Lindelof or Eric Baily on the right. United fans will feel that the back three in question would solidify their defence, and also make them a more balanced unit. The question of who will be playing behind and ahead of that back three however remains in doubt, with United keen on more midfielders and forwards. Meanwhile, David De Gea’s place looks in doubt given the form of Dean Henderson this season. But, either way, Solskjaer will have choices, and that is never a bad thing.
