According to Independent, Manchester United are poised to make a move for Youri Tielemans in the event of Paul Pogba’s potential departure from Old Trafford. The Frenchman has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, and it looks like they could be closing on the midfielder this summer.
As a result, United have identified Tielemans as their desired replacement for the former Juventus star. The Monaco midfielder is said to be available this summer, although the Red Devils could face stiff competition from Tottenham Hotspur.
Tielemans’ immense success in the Premier League
Tielemans joined Leicester City back in January, in a short-term loan deal. And the Belgian was a considerable influence for the Foxes right from the get-go.
Indeed, the former Anderlecht prodigy offered the much-needed stability in the Leicester City midfield and built a formidable partnership with Wilfred Ndidi at the base of Leicester’s 4-2-3-1 formation under Brendan Rodgers. He ended the campaign, having made 13 league appearances, scoring five goals and registering three assists.
Hence, it’s probably fair to say that Tielemans’ service in midfield was critical to Leicester’s remarkable turnaround under Rodgers that saw the Foxes finish ninth in the league table.
What can Tielemans bring to the table?
Tielemans is advertised as an attack-minded midfielder, who is proficient when it comes to bridging the gap between midfield and attack. He has excellent composure on the ball that allows him to carry the ball across half-spaces. He’s also quite a physically challenging midfielder, who is difficult to be shrugged off the ball.
Also, the Belgian international is known for his aggression on the pitch. The 22-year-old generally likes to hurry and hassle the opposition ball-carrier and give them very little time on the ball. He has averaged 1.3 tackles per game this past season.
However, what makes Tielemans such a unique component in midfield is his long-range prowess. Indeed, the Monaco starlet has a vicious right foot and often looks to have a shot on goal, preferably from a considerable distance. He notably attempted 31 shots on goal with Leicester, 24 of which have come from outside the box.
Is Tielemans a good option for Manchester United?
Tielemans is a viable option for Manchester United considering the dynamism he can offer in midfield. The Red Devils have always lacked someone who can instigate the midfield and also provide high work-rate. Tielemans, in that regard, could be the man to do so.
In addition, the Belgian international can provide some prospect for the future, at the age of 22. This will also tune in well with Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer’s apparent plan to rebuild the United team with young players, as he can provide the athleticism on the pitch – making Tielemans an ideal signing for the Premier League giants.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
