The future of Morgan Schneiderlin has been under the scanner ever since Jose Mourinho took over the reins at Manchester United. With the likes of Pogba, Fellaini, Carrick, Herrera and at that time Schweinsteiger understood to be above him in the pecking order it was natural for the French international to be worried about his future. But he decided to hang in there and assess his options in January.
3 months into the season and it is pretty clear he isn’t in the Special One’s 1st team scheme. With the January transfer window approaching, we take a look at 3 potential destinations for Schneiderlin where he can expect to reignite his career.
LEICESTER CITY
While the option might come as a bit of surprise but Leicester City are in dire need of players in midfield. N’Golo Kanté was not replaced by the board, for whatever inexplicable reasons they might have had and the sheer amount of ground he covered and the role he had perfected has been missed.
Schneiderlin might not be a like for like replacement but he would certainly add quality to the squad which hasn’t been able to deal with the multiple competitions this season. And for Morgan, a season on the bench to a potential starter in the Champions League will not be a raw deal in any way.
CRYSTAL PALACE
The Eagles have had a typical start to their season, losing the first two matches and then embarking on an unbeaten run of 5 matches but then again succumbing to a 4-match losing streak. Somehow, Pardew hasn’t been able to find that consistency despite having quality players at his disposal. And one of the more important reason seems to be their inability to replace Mike Jedinak in the team.
Palace were linked with a couple of players but none of the moves materialised. Schneiderlin would be a more than able replacement for Jedinak. His remarkable performances for Southampton and the experience from his time at Manchester United would be put to perfect use at Palace.
On top of that, there have been various reports of Cabaye moving to Southampton. In that case, this deal becomes even more vital. An initial loan move might be a good option for both parties.
WEST HAM UNITED
The Hammers messed up in the transfer market and in their quest to sign the elusive big money striker, they overlooked certain aspects in their team and are paying the price for it now. There are issues in defence and midfield and after a summer-long pursuit of a striker, they are still lacking in that area.
A loan move for Schneiderlin would not be something unimaginable. While West Ham are struggling at this point they would still strive to challenge for the Top 12 at least. Schneiderlin will bring in much-needed guile and defensive nous in their one-dimensional midfield. With the finances at their disposal, the wage will not be an issue for the Hammers.
