According to a recent report by L’Equipe (via the Daily Express), Manchester United have been tracking the progress of AS Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile and are preparing to make a move for him during this summer transfer period. However, the same source has also claimed that the Red Devils will face stiff competition from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Valencia in pursuit of the Ligue 1 centre-back in this off-season.
The Incredible Rise Of Benoit Badiashile In French Football
The French prospect came through the youth ranks of Monaco before he broke into their first-team last season. He managed to put in some commanding displays at the heart of Leonardo Jardim’s backline, which has raised his stock in the European transfer market.
Badiashile featured in 26 matches for the French outfit in the previous campaign, scoring one goal while creating one assist in all competitions. The Limoges born talent has remarkable potential and could become a world-class defender someday. On the defensive end, the French centre-half made an average of 1.3 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 3.9 clearances in the Ligue 1 last season (stats via whoscored).
The 18-year-old might be too inexperienced to secure a regular starting berth in the Premier League. However, Badiashile should undoubtedly welcome the challenge as it is one of the most competitive leagues in the world of football.
What Will The Talented French Defender Add To Solskjaer’s Side?
Badiashile is a decent defender off the ball as he can time his challenges well which enables him to intercept possession for his team inside his own half. At 18, he has also shown enough maturity on the pitch to help Monaco avoid relegation from the French top-flight last season.
Recruiting Badiashile will undoubtedly bolster Solskjaer’s defensive options at the Theatre of Dreams and will also add some much-needed depth to the Red Devils squad. However, Man United would have to be patient with the French youngster as he would need time to settle into life in England.
One can argue on whether the Mancunian outfit should target more proven defensive options in this transfer market rather than spend their money on another prospect for the future.
