The brilliant Chilean would add grit and guile to the United midfield…
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According to a report in the Mirror, Manchester United could sign world-class Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal for a club record fee.
The 26-year-old Chilean has won back to back Serie A titles in Italy, and is now widely recognised as one of the best central midfielders in the world.
As a result, Juventus would likely demand an astronomical fee for his services, but United boss David Moyes has repeatedly mentioned that his club have money to spend on the right player.
So let’s take a closer look at just what Vidal could bring to the Premier League…
Where does Vidal play?
Vidal has previously been used as a midfield anchorman, but this season he’s adapted his game and is used as a box-to-box midfielder for Juve.
As a result, he’s started to score goals consistently, and has bagged 12 in all competitions so far.
Due to his defensive capabilities though, Vidal enjoys starting from a deeper position rather than in a genuine no.10 position behind a striker. This benefits his combative style and brilliant work-rate.
What are Vidal’s strengths?
Vidal is a ferocious tackler in the middle of the park, and he is expert at breaking up opposition attacks. This gets him booked regularly, although this is a small price to pay for the amount of times he wins the ball back for his side.
On top of this, he is extremely composed with the ball at his feet, and prides himself on his ability to recycle possession in tight areas, and play intricate through balls to teammates.
Physically, he is not especially domineering, but he is stocky and strong. While he isn’t quick, Vidal’s tenacity and constant running helps him dominate the centre of the park.
How would Vidal fit into a fully fit United team…?
Once Van Persie returns from injury, here’s how we reckon a full strength United side could line up with Vidal in the middle of the park…
Alongside Michael Carrick, who would play as a deep-lying playmaker, Vidal would be given the licence to roam about the park and contribute defensively and offensively.
Alternatively, Vidal could play alongside Darren Fletcher, Marouane Fellaini, Ryan Giggs or Tom Cleverly, or in a midfield three including Carrick and one of the names just mentioned.
Vidal would undoubtedly boost a United side currently 11 points behind the leaders. Not only would his arrival delight fans crying out for world-class reinforcements, but his wonderful work-rate and footballing ability would suit the Premier League perfectly.
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