Why Dortmund’s Sahin desire could help Manchester United
Published:
Manchester United’s quest to land a top midfielder this summer could be given a boost by Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund.
The Champions League runners-up have indicated their desire to make Nuri Sahin’s loan deal a permanent one when the transfer window opens, potentially freeing up Red Devils target Ilkay Gundogen.
United manager David Moyes had already been confident of landing the £32m rated German and news that Dortmund have stepped up their interest in Sahin will further boost that stance.
A back injury has limited the 23-year-old’s first team opportunities at the Westfalenstadion this term and Sahin’s form means he is no longer guaranteed a starting berth under Jurgen Klopp.
Moyes is said to be sitting on a transfer budget of well over £100m for his summer reshaping plans, but the United boss could limit his spending on Gundogan by cutting his losses on Shinji Kagawa.
The Japan international has failed to cement a first team place at Old Trafford and despite showing glimpses of the talent that persuaded Sir Alex Ferguson to sign him from Dortmund, the new manager is keen to free up space in a new-look United midfield.
The shakeup is also likely to see Nani, Ashley Young and Anderson shown the United exit, meaning Gundogan would be almost guaranteed a starting berth alongside Juan Mata and Adnan Januzaj in the heart of the Red Devils’ midfield.
United will face competition from Real Madrid, Chelsea and Arsenal to secure the German’s services but Moyes’ longstanding admiration for the youngster could stand him in good stead once the inevitable negotiations start.
United’s dismal form this season has seen Moyes’ men drift to 10/1 to finish inside the top four and if the new gaffer is to convince the club’s owners and fans that he is the man to lead the side forward next term then signings of Gundogan’s ilk are a must.
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