Recent reports from Italian media outlet Tutto Juve suggest that Premier League giants Manchester United could make an offer for Juventus left-back Alex Sandro in the upcoming transfer window, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer seems set to add to his options at the back. The report further states that the Bianconeri have set a price tag of around €25 million on the Brazilian full-back, although they will be letting him leave for just €20 million.
In a report last month, Calciomercato stated that ‘unsettled’ defender Alex Telles is an old obsession of the Juventus management, who could well be on his way to the Allianz stadium in the upcoming months if both the sides manage to negotiate a fair deal.
Alex Sandro’s Season At The Allianz Stadium
The Catanduva-born defender has featured in 30 games across all competitions for Juventus this season, bagging four-goal contributions in the process. Furthermore, Alex Sandro has been one of the most consistent performers for his side this term – averaging 1.5 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 2.5 long balls, and 1.9 clearances per 90 minutes in the Italian top-flight. Furthermore, the 30-year-old has averaged a pass success rate of 88% over the range of twenty-two Serie A appearances, with approximately 49.7 successful passes made per game.
With such stats, it’ll be fair to say that Sandro’s ability and composure on the ball are quite impressive. Furthermore, with 13 goals, 29 registered assists, and five league titles in 228 appearances since joining the Italian giants from Porto in August 2015, it’s beyond any doubt that he’ll be an immense addition to the present United backline in terms of experience.
Does The Deal Make Any Sense?
With players like Luke Shaw, Alex Telles and Brandon Williams, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a wide range of options to choose from when it comes to the left-back department. Under such circumstances, spending €20-€25 million on a mere backup option certainly doesn’t make any sense. Even a Sandro-Telles swap deal fails to sound reasonable.
Instead, the Norwegian tactician should be looking to strengthen his centre-back department. United have been linked with a host of quality defenders over the past few months – Pau Torres, Jules Kounde, and Raphael Varane, to name a few – who are not only available but also quite affordable. A move for any of them would surely make more sense to the fans.
(Stats from WhoScored)
