Alexis Sanchez Set To Become A Manchester United Player?

This week has witnessed multiple reports in the media fuelling speculations that United may have joined Liverpool and Arsenal in the race to sign the £20 million rated Barcelona striker and winger, Alexis Sanchez. According to reports, newly appointed manager, Luis Enrique, may have earmarked the Chilean international for sale as he prepares to restructure his team.

There has never been any doubt about the quality the player possesses and though he may no longer be needed at the Nou Camp, he is a prolific winger and striker; the number of top European clubs racing for his signature is a confirmation of that. Whenever he is selected to play for the team, he has always justified his inclusion. There has been no official confirmation yet from United that a formal enquiry or bid has been made for the player, but there are already strong speculations that that United will compete with Liverpool to sign Sanchez. Should he arrive at Old Trafford, which players would have to go for him?

Sanchez is a prolific striker cum winger who can play on both sides of the wing. At Old Trafford, Sanchez would most probably be deployed to play in the wings because of the abundance of talents who can play upfront. Robin Van Persie, Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Welbeck all possess goal scoring talents.

If Louis van Gaal opt to play Sanchez from the wings, right or left, then Ashley Young may no longer be needed in the team. Unfortunately for Young, his current form, especially last season could make his an easy decision for van Gaal to make. Although Young has the versatility of being able to play from the right as well as from the left, his crosses and impact on team performance has not been fantastic. Louis Nani is another player van Gaal may axe. With only five appearances last season and without any goal or assist, Nani’s with United seems to be coming to an end. Well, long overdue if you ask me.

Shinji Kagawa is a player with abundant football skills but sadly, he hasn’t been given enough playing time at United. With Rooney and Mata playing behind Van Persie, he may continue to feel frustrated on the bench, unless of course Van Gaal finds a place for him. Another player who may have his place threatened if Sanchez’ transfer to Old Trafford pulls through is Danny Welbeck whose performance especially under David Moyes has been epileptic.

All these are of course speculations and United may not eventually sign Sanchez. During this summer transfer window, almost every quality player has been linked to the team with Ed Woodward, Executive Vice-Chairman still struggling to sign the 18-year-old Southampton left back.