Manchester United are monitoring the progress of Gremio’s talented playmaker Arthur Melo. The 21-year-old has raised quite a lot of eyebrows with his blistering performances in the Brazilian top flight this season. As per reports from Daily Mail, Chelsea and Barcelona are also interested in the young Brazilian sensation.
Melo was called up by the Brazilian national team last month, in their World Cup Qualifiers’. Although he is yet to make his debut in International football, the 21-year-old could soon evolve as one of his nation’s brightest prospects in coming years. Here’s a SWOT report on the Gremio midfielder.
Strength
Arthur Melo epitomizes the role of a modern-day playmaker. He is quick and sharp, who is blessed with immense technical qualities. Arthur has sensational close control, which lets him get past opposing defenders with total ease.
He is also an excellent ball-carrier, who can facilitate the entire passing channel in the final third. Controlling the temp from the middle is what makes him such a valued asset for Gremio. The 21-year-old is very comfortable in his passing game, which is coupled with his excellent vision.
Arthur is a versatile midfield as well. Although naturally a playmaker, he has operated as a central midfielder for the most part of this season.
Weaknesses
Physicality is the main weakness for Arthur Melo. Standing at just 1.72cm, his lack of physique prevents him from being a threat in the air. He can also be easily outmanoeuvred by a physically challenging opposition.
In addition, he also needs to improve on his end product. Despite sparking a shed-load of creativity for Gremio this season, the 21-year-old has only acquired an assist so far. Improving on his finishing might be a huge bonus for his overall gameplay.
Oppurtunites
Arthur Melo can be a good signing for both Manchester United and Chelsea, considering the fact that both of these Premier League clubs have been looking for a creative midfielder on the market. Arthur can be a perfect alternative, should Chelsea miss out on Ross Barkley this January.
On the other hand, Andre Herrera’s future with Manchester United is also doubtful, which further paves the way for Melo to make a strong impact in any of these clubs.
Threats
Arthur Melo, despite all his talents, is terrible inexperienced on the big stage. While he may impress in the Brazilian top division, a transition to England could prove to be a little too much for the talented midfielder.
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