According to reports from the Birmingham Mail, Manchester United have now joined the race to sign Wolves’ transfer target Dwight McNeil. The Red Devils had parted ways with him when he was just 14 after it was deemed that he might not be good enough.
McNeil on his brief stint with Manchester United
McNeil recently told the Sun, ”I was released by Man United when I was 14. Funnily enough, one of the reasons I got released was because my set-pieces weren’t the best. It was quite an upsetting time for me. I was still at school as well; I was still learning. I came to Burnley, got put on a six-week trial and signed just before the end of the season. I’m a Man United fan, despite what happened. I’ll always be a Man United fan. I just wasn’t up to their standards.”
All these words could spell trouble for Wolves if they are really keen on McNeil as it seems like the 19-year-old would jump to join Manchester United given that he is a fan of their club. The Burnley winger has done well so far in the Premier League as he has managed one goal and three assists in 11 Premier League appearances.
Do Wolves need someone like McNeil?
The West Midlands club currently has Diogo Jota as the only plausible option who can play on the left-wing. Jota often plays in central areas as he looks to support Jimenez in the attack. The wing-backs primarily provide the width on the flanks in Wolves’ system.
McNeil can add more depth and competition for places in the Wolves lineup, and we feel that Wolves could do with another left winger in their roster. 19-year-old McNeil might even thrive in the wing-back role as well given his impressive work rate, so it is understandable why Nuno Santo might be keen on him.
The English youngster has an impressive left foot, and his pace and dribbling skills are also handy. He is still raw and needs improvements to his game. However, he always looks composed and calm on the ball.
However, McNeil saying that he is a Manchester United fan is almost like a come and get me plea to the Manchester heavyweights. Burnley will likely play hardball and ask for big money once Manchester United become interested and Wolves could be priced out of a move. As for now, missing out on the English winger wouldn’t be too big a blow for Santo. However, he has the potential to be a top player in the future.
