Manchester United are hoping to hijack Atletico Madrid’s transfer deal for Benfica midfielder Bryan Cristante as they keep scouring the market for a creative midfielder.
Earlier in the season, the player’s agent, Giuseppe Riso has confirmed that the Benfica star is leaving at the end of this season. “Bryan will move at the end of the season,” Riso said.
Atletico Madrid are said to be front-runners in the race to sign the current Atalanta midfielder who is on loan from Portuguese outfit Benfica. However, according to reports from Spanish news outlet, Don Balon, Manchester United have stepped up their interest in the Italian international and could apparently hijack the deal for the 22-year-old.
The midfield department has been a real problem for the Red Devils this season with last season’s star performers like Ander Herrera failing to deliver. The Spaniard is highly expected to leave the Old Trafford in the summer while Marouane Fellaini’s future with United also hangs in the balance, with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
Considering the circumstances Jose Mourinho is currently experiencing at United, Bryan Cristante could be an ideal acquisition for the Red Devils. In fact, earlier this season, the midfield voiced his wish of playing in the Premier League too!
Speaking to Gazetta Dello Sport, the Italian revealed, “So many people tell me: The Premier League is the perfect place for you, and I agree with them.
“It’s physical, there’s a lot of tackling and open football. I can really see myself there.” – he added.
Blessed with immense technical abilities as well as having an eye for goal, Cristante has been an important part of Atalanta’s success this season. His offensive partnership with the likes of Josip Ilicic and Papu Gomez have steered the club into the knockout stages of the UEFA Europa League as well as maintaining their decent run in the league.
Furthermore, his ability to control the tempo of the game bodes well not just for the player but the club itself, who are constantly on the lookout for a long-term replacement for Michael Carrick and Cristante has the necessary skillset to evolve as a key midfielder for the Red Devils. Therefore, there’s no doubt that he will be an intriguing addition to his Manchester United side.
According to reports, Manchester United have already launched a bid for the Italian International and a move to Old Trafford in the coming summer could be a stark possibility for the 22-year-old.
