Ashley Young has turned into a fringe player at Manchester United as the ex-Aston Villa winger has made only a couple of appearances for the Red Devils this season. Jose Mourinho used him mainly as a bit part player this season but whenever he has featured he made a very fruitful impact to the side.
The 31-year-old arrived at the Old Trafford from Aston Villa in 2011 in a £15m move. Young appeared to have an insecure future as Jose Mourinho already has a number of attacking prospects on the side. Age also could be a deciding factor as the England international will be turning 32 next month.
In the initial phase this season, Young appeared in a couple of appearances from the bench but as the season went on, Mourinho started to use him as a fullback. The move proved to be very impactful and he incidentally played the full ninety minutes in one of the most important games of this season as United defeated Chelsea 2-0.
Let us take a look at three clubs who should make a move for him.
Aston Villa
A move to his former club is seemingly possible as manager Steve Bruce would be looking for affordable reinforcements. Villa finished 13th in the recently finished season in the Championship which is not expected from a club of their stature.
Young has proved that if given chances he can be counted on. Villa needs depth on their side and Young could be a realistic target for them. The player has only a year left on his current contract so he would command a lower fee. Also, the environment and club facilities are very familiar to him so overall this could be an ideal swansong for Young.
Newcastle United
Currently, there is a scarcity of left sided wingers at the St James Park. Yoan Gouffran’s future is unsettled right now and he might leave the club at the end of this season as his contract is coming to an end. Benitez could utilise Young on the left side.
The 31-year-old has still the skill and flair to thrive in the Premier League. An avid crosser of the ball, Young also can be utilised as a makeshift fullback as we have seen this season.
A Move To China
Young had been linked with Shandong Luneng as the Chinese club was very interested in a move. They were ready to offer him a lucrative deal and the left winger might give it a thought.
