Atletico’s unsung centre-back next to tick Man United’s boxes
Published:With Manchester United waving goodbye to not one, but two central defensive stalwarts this summer, the search is well and truly on for Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic’s replacements.
Once the most feared defensive partnership in the Premier League, Ferdinand and Vidic will no longer be seen in the famous red of United together, but one man used to playing in red-and-white stripes could well be taking to the Old Trafford turf next season.
Atletico Madrid’s 29-year-old Brazilian centre-back, Miranda, has hinted he’ll be leaving the La Liga champions during this transfer window.
Speaking ahead of the World Cup in his native land – where Miranda has missed out on representing the 3/1 favourites despite playing an integral role in Atletico’s Spanish-title triumph – he gave a massive hint his time at the Vicente Calderon looks to be ending.
“I have received several offers and we are negotiating”, said Miranda.
Although this quote would seem to indicate the Brazil international has the pick of several high-profile destinations, it’s believed United are leading the race to sign him.
If the deal does go through, then United would be gaining a vastly experienced and consummate centre-half who has made a century of Atleti appearances since joining from Sao Paulo back in 2011.
Although his Uruguayan defensive partner, Diego Godin, hogged the limelight with some crucial goals – not least the leveller which sealed the title against Barcelona – Miranda played an integral role in that success as well as their run to the Champions League final.
He was a key cog in Atleti’s defensive wheel which only shipped 26 goals all season on their march to Spain’s top prize.
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