In a recent report, the Daily Mail has revealed that Manchester United are in talks to land FC Porto left-back Alex Telles, but the two clubs are yet to reach an agreement over a potential deal during this ongoing transfer period. It is believed that the Brazilian defender is still ‘a player of interest’ for the Red Devils and would command a fee around £17m (via The Daily Mail).
The one-time Brazilian international has got what it takes to secure a regular starting place in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad ahead of Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams in the 2020-21 Premier League campaign. Hence, it is only logical for Man United to consider going all out to recruit him before the transfer deadline in October.
Telles’ Excellent Form At Estádio do Dragão Last Season
The 27-year-old was a subject of a lot of plaudits last season for his incredible performances as the primary left-back of Sérgio Conceição’s team. He managed to put in several mesmerising displays down the left flank and ended the previous campaign with 13 goals and 12 assists to his name in 49 matches in various competitions.
The Brazilian full-back was a positive influence in both halves based on his average of 1.1 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 1.2 clearances, 1.3 shots, 1.8 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Liga NOS last season. Telles was even more productive in Europe where he averaged 2.3 tackles, 1.5 interceptions, 1.4 clearances, 0.6 shots, 2.6 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per game in the last edition of the UEFA Europa League. He deserves a pat on the back for distributing the ball relatively well when interchanging possession with his teammates as he completed 80.5% of his attempted passes in the Portuguese top tier (stats via whoscored).
What Will The Brazilian International Add To Solskjaer’s Side?
Telles has made a name for himself for staying active in the defence and maintaining a solid shape at the back. He is a good tackler and can make a few crucial interceptions for his team down the left flank. The Brazilian sensation hardly gets beaten in a 1v1 foot chase with his marker as he has got the pace to make some important recovering runs inside his half.
However, what makes Telles such a great player is his ability to score and create goals consistently from the left-back position. Not many full-backs can match his numbers as far as their overall productivity is concerned in the final third.
Is Telles The Right Choice For Man United?
Telles’ signing will be a much-needed one for the Red Devils as both Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams struggled to find consistency with regards to their all-round impact on the left side of Solskjaer’s backline. The Brazilian will bring plenty of creativity and goal-threat to Old Trafford. He would solidify and stabilise the Man United defence as well, which makes him a fantastic choice for Solskjaer during this summer transfer window.
