According to Gazzetta Dello Sport journalist, Nicola Schira, as cited by Daily Star, Manchester United are in talks with Paulo Dybala’s agents and his brother Mariano over a potential switch to Old Trafford.
The Argentine international wants €10 million per year salary while Juventus have slapped an €80 million price-tag. The Bianconeri are ready to utilise the Dybala funds to make a move for prime target Romelu Lukaku.
How could Dybala fit in at Man United?
Dybala is a secondary striker by trade, who is capable of featuring in several positions. Should Lukaku leave Old Trafford this summer, the ex-Palermo prodigy can be utilised as a partnering striker to Marcus Rashford in Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer’s 4-3-1-2 setup.
Alternatively, the Argentine can be deployed on the flanks alongside Alexis Sanchez in case of a 4-2-3-1. He can also feature in the number ten role, with Juan Mata and Sanchez playing on the wings. Dybala’s clever sense of positioning, coupled with his exquisite control over the ball could make him a useful addition to the Man United setup.
Even though the 25-year-old is not necessarily a replacement for Lukaku, he can be considered as an ideal alternative to Paul Pogba. The Frenchman has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, and his departure will surely leave a huge void in the creative department. Dybala, to that end, could provide that creative essence in the final third by featuring either as a number ten or as a false nine.
Should United get rid of Lukaku?
Lukaku endured a horrible campaign last season, scoring only 12 goals in 32 Premier League matches. His lack of consistency in front of goal forced the Red Devils to rely on the services of young Rashford. But, despite his struggles, the Belgian still has a high valuation.
Moreover, the former Everton sensation is clearly not an ideal fit for the Solskjaer’s style of play that concentrates on athleticism and technicality. Lukaku, with his bulky figure, fails to offer enough mobility in the final third and it’s rather evident that he is not the best of partners for Rashford.
And with Juventus seemingly interested in the services of the Belgian international, this could be an excellent time for Solskjaer to cash in on Lukaku. The Norwegian could use that sum to fund a move for Dybala, whose versatility could solve United’s offensive woes and potentially make them a strong title contender next season.
