According to a recent report by The Sun, Manchester United will face stiff competition from Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal in pursuit of Juventus centre-half Merih Demiral. The same source has revealed that the Spurs chiefs have reached out to the player, who has also been monitored by the Red Devils’ scouts in the past.
The Turkish defender has found first-team opportunities hard to come by at the Allianz Stadium since making a big move to Turin from Sassuolo before the start of this campaign. It is understood that the Serie A prospect wants to end his spell at Italy and is prepared to make a switch to England in search of more game time (via The Sun).
Demiral’s Growing Frustrations At Juventus
The 21-year-old has only managed to feature in one match for the Italian giants this term. He played the full 90 minutes in his side’s 2-1 win versus Hellas Verona earlier this season. Demiral has also represented the Turkish national side in 12 international fixtures and has also helped his nation qualify for the upcoming UEFA Euro 2020 finals.
The European defensive ace has fallen behind the likes of Matthijs de Ligt, Leonardo Bonucci and Daniele Rugani in Maurizio Sarri’s pecking order. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that he would want to stick around in Turin for long.
What Are The Turkish International’s Best Attributes?
Demiral is a dominant presence in the air as he can win most of his aerial duels with the opposition inside his own half. The Turkish youngster can command his own box with authority and conviction. Furthermore, he is a capable centre-back who can also make some vital interceptions and last-ditch clearances for the benefit of his team.
However, the jury is still out on whether he can find some consistency and earn regular first-team starts on the field. Man United cannot afford to take another gamble on an unproven talent with potential as they have signed way too many duds over the past few windows.
Is Demiral Worth The Fight?
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will have a fierce battle in his hands if he wants to recruit the Turkish defender. With both Arsenal and Tottenham also interested in his services, Man United will be better off looking at some other transfer alternatives as they need a quality centre-half who can compliment Harry Maguire at the back. At this moment, Demiral is not worthy of Solskjaer’s attention and so the Norwegian head coach should instead give up on the chase for Demiral.
