According to latest reports, Manchester United’s desperate search for defenders to bolster its backline has led them to force their way past Chelsea in the pursuit of Serie A enforcer Stefan De Vrij. A showdown between the two Premier League clubs looks imminent this summer.
With Vrij’s contract with the Italian side expiring next year, a lot of clubs are on red alert on his developments but reportedly Jose Mourinho’s United are leading the race. Mourinho had brought in Eric Bailly from La Liga last summer to strengthen the team’s core, but injuries and fitness have taken him long to adapt to English football which has indeed taken a hit in United’s campaign.
Further inconsistencies regarding the fitness of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones in that same position had got Mourinho in great crisis. Now with Bailly and full-back Marcos Rojo gelling well in central defence, the team looks to be on the right path and they have recently won the EFL Cup.
However, all these adjustments have taken time and United are no more the title contenders this season, rather they are fighting for a Champions League spot. Now, with United favourites to sign a talented defender like him, things would look pretty positive next season. And a Champions League spot will be enough to lure the 25-year-old Dutch international to Old Trafford.
Although Manchester City and Tottenham are also reported to be the other clubs keeping tabs on him, the Old Trafford club are long-term admirers of the Dutchman and were interested in signing him when he was at Feyenoord. If he decides to move to England, United seems to be the first option.
Since his move to Italy back in 2014, De Vrij’s reputation has doubled of someone having a rock solid presence at the back. He has been their first-choice since day one and is one of the main reasons that Lazio are fifth in Serie A. A full international since 2012, De Vrij has earned 30 caps for the Netherlands so far. He was in the famed Dutch team that finished third at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and was also selected for the Team of the Tournament.
De Vrij’s concentration in the game and his brilliant intercepting abilities make him a crucial asset to any side. With his frame of 6’2″, he is also pretty domineering in the air which is well-reflected from his 1.6 aerial duels won every game this season.
With a passing accuracy of 83.3% from the back, he would definitely improve United’s backline. With players like Chris Smalling and Daley Blind rumoured to be leaving the club at the end of the season, he would be a potent replacement.
