Ander Herrera has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Barcelona. The Manchester United midfielder could be the subject of a bid if the Catalans somehow fail to lure Marco Verratti.
Herrera has transformed into one of the best central midfielders of the current lot with his superb performance for the Red Devils last season. The Spaniard joined United in 2014 but emerged as a vital cog under the guidance of Jose Mourinho. Following his performance in the United jersey, he got his maiden call-up to the Spain national team.
Mourinho certainly is very impressed and the player has a very big role in his plans next year. Wayne Rooney was handed the armband last season but had a very poor season. Mourinho has been searching a suitable player to take up the mantle and Herrera’s name is doing the rounds.
The former Athletic Bilbao midfielder has only one year left on his current contract but United do have the option to extend it for a further year. However, a new deal is set to be offered with a huge hike in his current wage.
Herrera himself is very happy and has said it again and again that he would like to play for Manchester United for the foreseeable future as he wants to repay the faith that Mourinho has showered on him.
Barcelona are desperately trying to reach a deal for Paris Saint Germain’s Verratti who himself has voiced his intentions of leaving the Parc Des Princes. Newly appointed Ernesto Valverde’s has prioritised the signing of the Italian international but should they fail in their attempt they have reportedly short-listed Herrera as a plan B.
Herrera came to United for a fee of £29m from Athletic Bilbao and United currently are not in a mood to sell the player. It is understood that the Red Devils will start to consider options if someone matches their valuation of £60m for the player.
Having worked with Herrera at Bilbao, Valverde knows the potential of him and has given the green signal over a potential move.
Herrera was adjudged the player of the season at United and had a huge role as United claimed their maiden Europa League trophy as well as the EFL Cup. His ability to intercept a move and rotate the possession has been fully utilised by Mourinho as the Red Devils finished the season on a very strong note by grabbing a place in the Champions League.
