A Bola has recently claimed that Manchester United have stepped up their chase to land FC Porto full-back Alex Telles this summer. It is believed that the Brazilian defender’s representatives are in talks with the Red Devils to ‘intensify efforts’ to bring him to the Theatre of Dreams during this summer transfer period (via A Bola).
Telles’ Excellent Form For Porto Last Season
Telles has got less than a year left to run in his current contract at the Estádio do Dragão. Therefore, it is only logical for Porto to cash in on him in this off-season or else risk losing him for free next summer. The 27-year-old had another incredible season in Portugal after he produced several productive displays for Sérgio Conceição’s side down the left flank. The talented left-back made 49 appearances for the Portuguese giants in the previous campaign, netting 13 goals and providing 12 assists in all competitions.
The one-time Brazilian international managed to make himself useful at both ends of the field as he averaged 1.1 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 1.2 clearances, 1.3 shots, 1.8 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per game in the Liga NOS last season. Telles even completed 80.5% of his attempted passes in league football which goes to prove just how accurate he can be when distributing the ball out from the back (stats via whoscored).
What Will The Brazilian Full-Back Add To Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Side?
Telles has made a habit of making some driving runs with the ball using his quickness and ball-control in the opposition half. He is a reliable defensive presence at the back as he can sense the danger fast that allows him to pull off some crucial interceptions inside his half.
The Brazilian sensation is not afraid to clear his lines when he is being pegged back by the opposition attackers. His all-round game, coupled with his tireless work ethic, makes him a decent option for the Red Devils to consider during this ongoing transfer window.
Is Telles The Right Fit For Man United This Summer?
A left-back of Telles’ proven quality will be a welcome addition to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad heading into the new campaign. He is a capable defender who will bolster the quality of the Man United first-team considerably at Old Trafford.
Telles will be a significant upgrade over Luke Shaw and Brandon Williams as he will hopefully bring plenty of goals and creativity to the north-west of England if Solskjaer is successful in recruiting him this summer. At 27, the Brazilian is currently playing at his peak and has still got a lot of time left in his playing career which the Red Devils could look to capitalise on in the years to come. All in all, Telles will be a great fit for the Mancunian giants this summer as he will help them close the gap to Liverpool and Manchester City at the summit of English football.