According to a recent report by Gazzetta dello Sport (via the Sun), Manchester United are bracing themselves for the departure of David De Gea, Eric Bailly and Nemanja Matic as Juventus are plotting to swoop them up on a free transfer at the end of this campaign.
The same source has also revealed that the Red Devils trio has already entered the final year of their respective contracts and will be free to leave Old Trafford next summer when the Turin giants will offer them with an opportunity to ply their trades in Italy.
How Has De Gea, Bailly and Matic Fared During Their Time In The Premier League?
De Gea has been a rock at the back for Man United since he arrived at the club from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2011. The Spaniard has gone on to make 366 appearances, conceding 377 goals while creating 129 assists across all competitions. The 28-year-old has been a loyal servant for the Red Devils, but some mistakes have crept up in his game as evidenced by his error during Man United’s 2-1 home defeat versus Crystal Palace last month.
On the other hand, both Bailly and Matic have been a sporadic feature for the 2017 UEFA Europa League winners following Solskjaer’s arrival at Old Trafford. Frequent injuries have hampered Bailly’s progress at Manchester, so he might welcome the opportunity to switch clubs next summer. As for Matic, he is about to embark upon the twilight years of his playing career.
The Serbian talent was far better suited to play under Mourinho than what he offers for Ole’s team. He has found it difficult to earn more game time as the Man United boss wants to promote some of his younger players like Scott McTominay and Andreas Pereira. Hence, it makes sense for Matic to move on in search of more first-team chances during the summer transfer period of 2020.
What Should Be Ole’s Play Here?
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer finds himself in an awkward position as all three players have played an essential role for Man United over the past couple of seasons. The Mancunian giants cannot afford to lose De Gea, let alone on a free transfer. Thus, Solskjaer should do everything in his power to convince the Spaniard to extend his contract at the Theatre of Dreams.
As for Bailly and Matic, they would be better off switching clubs when their respective deals expire at the end of the season. Both players have flourished playing under Jose Mourinho, but they don’t seem to fit Solskjaer’s style of play. Therefore, it is better for everyone that they move on in search of greener pastures.
