Things are not going in the right direction for Jose Mourinho at Manchester United following a string of dismal outings. Despite latest fightbacks at home and abroad, the Red Devils suffered a humiliation against ‘noisy neighbours’ Manchester City at Etihad last Sunday as they failed to offer any resilience in a 3-1 defeat.
Mourinho’s men have conceded 21 goals already in Premier League after 12 outings compared to a total of 28 last season when they finished second in standings after the Citizens. Their disorganisation has led to being exposed at the back time and again. Therefore, a revamp is required to reconstruct the defensive line trimming down the dead woods.
If reports are believed to be true, the Red Devils are looking to offload Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and also Eric Bailly who have offered little this term failing to meet the expectations. Bailly, in particular, is discontent over his playing time and seeking a move out to attain regular minutes elsewhere.
The £30m arrival from Villarreal was the Portuguese’s first signing since taking charge of United back in summer 2016 and the 24-year-old Ivorian made an immediate impact securing a regular status in the heart of their deep defensive line. He was vital to their League Cup and Europa League triumph on debut campaign but failed to retain his reputation amid injuries and dip in form.
Bailly has made only three league starts this term including one embarrassing substitution within 20 minutes of the game against Newcastle United after conceding twice early on at Old Trafford. He has not been handed game-time ever since and failed to make it to the matchday squad on most occasions. The centre-back is understandably eyeing a winter exit but the club might not let him leave this soon unless they bring in reinforcements when business resumes.
Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, the North London rivals, have reportedly retained their interest in the defender having failed to land him in summer but should be boosted by how things have altered in past few months time. Although Mourinho still trusts Bailly’s potential, the clock is ticking for the Portuguese tactician who needs to find a way out real soon to overcome the catastrophe.
Both the Gunners and Spurs are lacking balance at the back, but a business with the latter would be gainful considering their long-term interest in Belgian veteran Toby Alderweireld who has rejected several extension offers and is open to switching sides. The Manchester Reds require immediate resolution and the experience of Alderweireld might bring back the much-needed stability to stake a claim for a Champions League berth. Insertion of Bailly in a deal would smoothen talks and must be win-win for both the clubs.
