The Atheltic (subscription required) has recently reported that Manchester United have identified Juventus winger Douglas Costa as an alternative to Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho this summer. It is believed that the Red Devils are also keeping an eye on Kingsley Coman along with the Brazilian attacker as they consider them as ‘genuine possibilities’ during this summer transfer window (via The Athletic).
Costa’s Influential Season At Turin Despite His Poor Run With Injuries
Costa was plagued by multiple injuries in the recently concluded Serie A campaign which has seen him miss out on several matches over the past 12 months. However, he has done well to find some productivity despite being a sporadic presence in the Juve first-team. Costa participated in 29 matches for the Italian champions last season, banging in three goals and grabbing seven assists across multiple competitions. His stats prove just how influential he can be for the Turin giants in the final third.
The former Bayern Munich wing wizard averaged 0.8 shots, 1.3 key passes and 2.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Serie A and the UEFA Champions League. Plus, he also deserves some credit for being neat and tidy with his ball-distribution after completing 83.8% of his attempted passes in the Italian top-flight (stats via whoscored).
The 31-time Brazil international can be a useful asset for any top-flight club when he is fit and firing on all cylinders in the opposition half. Therefore, Costa could prove to be a shrewd acquisition for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side if they can find a way to recruit him ahead of the new campaign.
What Will The Brazilian Speedster Bring To The Table?
Costa is one of the quickest wingers in Europe as he possesses the pace, agility and dribbling ability to cause all sorts of problems for the opposition. He packs a lot of venom with his strikes from long range and even has the vision to play a decisive pass in the offensive third of the pitch. The Brazilian sensation can retain possession well for his team while interchanging passes in and around the opposition penalty box. However, there are some serious concerns over his long-term health following his tough run with injuries recently.
Is Costa The Right Choice For Man United This Summer?
If Costa can show a clean bill of health next season, then he could turn out to be a decent choice for the Red Devils to consider during this summer transfer window. He would undeniably add more goals to the Man United frontline and could act as a creative influence for them as well from the wide areas.
Costa has what it takes to secure a regular starting berth at the Theatre of Dreams in the coming seasons. However, the Brazilian’s addition could hamper the growth of players like Mason Greenwood and Daniel James. At the same time, he would even increase competition for the likes of Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes and Anthony Martial due to his incredible versatility to play on either flank or as an attacking midfielder down the middle.
