Recent reports from Evening Standard state that Manchester United are keen on signing Lille right-back Zeki Celik in the upcoming transfer window as Ole Gunnar Solksjaer looks set to add to his defensive options ahead of the 2021/22 season.
The report further states that United will face fierce competition from other English clubs like Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur as they are in the market for a skilled wing-back as well.
Celik’s Amazing Season At Pierre Mauroy
The Turkish international bagged 4 goals and 2 assists in thirty-three appearances for Lille across all competitions this season as they went on to win Ligue 1 for the sixth time in their history.
The 24-year-old has managed to put up some impressive numbers on the board this season, both defensively and offensively – averaging 2.5 tackles, 1.3 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 0.8 key passes, 0.4 crosses, 2 long balls, and 1.3 dribbles per 90 minutes in the French top flight. Celik’s ability to understand certain in-game situations is quite impressive, especially when he’s going forward. Besides winning the ball using his sheer strength and power, Celik doesn’t refrain from bursting forward to dribble past the opposition players and put threatening crosses into the box. His powerful runs make him a highly advantageous asset as he adds a new dimension to his team’s attack. Last but not least, Celik’s versatility makes him more appealing. He can fill in the conventional right-back position as well as the contemporary right-midfield position.
Why Solskjaer Should Get The Deal Done ASAP
Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been nothing short of a hit for the Red Devils since his £50 million move to Old Trafford from Crystal Palace last summer. However, United lack quality backups in this department, with 20-year-old Brandon Williams being the only viable option at present. Moreover, the Norwegian tactician doesn’t rate Diogo Dalot very highly.
The signing of Zeki Celik will undoubtedly give rise to healthy competition, and it might just bring the best out of the 23-year-old defender, who arguably has a lot to improve in offensive terms. Moreover, the Lille star would provide United with a very different option in games when tearing down a balky opposition setup is the day’s order. Available for just £13m, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will hardly find a better option even if he keeps searching all summer, so he should get this deal done at all costs.
(Stats from WhoScored).
