According to Mirror, Manchester United have identified Ryan Fraser as one of their top targets as they aim to bolster their attacking department this summer. The Bournemouth star has been linked with a move away from Dean Court following a tremendous campaign.
Arsenal are among the clubs interested in the services of Fraser. But, the Gunners could face financial constraints in meeting his reported valuation of £20 million, leaving the door open for United to make a move.
Fraser’s remarkable season at Bournemouth
Fraser was one of the league’s most effective attackers during the 2018/19 campaign. The Scot was involved in as many as 21 league goals, ending the season as Bournemouth’s second most productive player. Also, 14 of those 21 goals were assists – a tally only bettered by Eden Hazard (15).
Hence, Fraser’s chance creation coupled with his services in front of goal was critical to the Cherries avoiding the relegation scrap this past season, by finishing 14th in the league table. It also helped them become the highest scoring team in the second half of the table with 56 goals, which is, quite astonishingly, a record only bettered by the Premier League top six.
What can Fraser add to the table?
A left-winger by trade, Fraser is primarily known for his pace, and that allows him to become a genuine threat on the counter. He has delivered 93 key passes this season, most of which have come from either crosses (52) or corners (21), which is indicative of his set-piece prowess coupled with his ability to whip in crosses into the box.
The 25-year-old uses his pace quite well to run in-behind defences. But, he, at times, relies too much on his speed and understandably so, as Fraser is not a great dribbler. He has averaged only 0.6 successful dribbles per game and is more focused on beating the defender with his pace rather than his dribbling prowess.
Should Manchester United make a move for Fraser?
Making a move for Fraser may not be a prudent decision for Manchester United. The Red Devils have already signed Daniel James, who prefers playing on the left-wing. Besides, they have Anthony Martial and Alexis Sanchez and hence, Fraser’s addition to the club would unnecessarily stack the wide-attacking department.
Furthermore, the Bournemouth star is a little too one-dimensional when it comes to his style of play, as discussed earlier. It also remains unknown whether or not he will be able to cope with the soaring expectations that are usually associated with any Man United newcomer – making Fraser no less than a gamble for Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer this summer.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
