Man Utd to turn to former Arsenal man if Vidal bid fails

As expected, Louis van Gaal is already ringing the changes at Old Trafford this summer with the aim of ensuring Manchester United avoid another ignominious season.

Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera have already arrived in big money deals and the Dutchman has implemented the 5-3-2 formation that was so successful for the Netherlands at the World Cup.

So far, it’s been so good for United, who have won all five of their friendlies under the Iron Tulip, and their 5/1 odds of returning to the summit of Premier League next season are looking more generous by the day.

However, Van Gaal has admitted that his squad is still not up to scratch, and Untied are still in the hunt for at least another centre-back and a midfielder.

Arturo Vidal has long been the Red Devils’ primary target to bolster their midfield, but the Chilean is so far proving a very difficult deal to complete.

Juventus are holding out for a huge offer for Vidal, and have reportedly given United a one-week deadline to meet it.

There are also concerns about Vidal’s current knee injury to take into account and with Van Gaal no doubt keen to get his side sorted as soon as possible, he might be be tempted to look elsewhere.

One man that would be easier to acquire is Barcelona midfielder, and former Arsenal player, Alex Song, who is apparently surplus to requirements at the Camp Nou this summer.

Barcelona have already let Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez move to England this window as Luis Enrique overhauls his squad ahead of the new season.

Having finally signed a couple of centre-backs, Enrique will surely move Javier Mascherano back into midfield, making Song’s presence all the more unnecessary at the Catalan club.

The 26-year-old has endured a tough time in Spain, but his qualities are well known in England from his time at Arsenal, making it no surprise that United are being linked with his services.

In his last season at the Emirates in 2011/12, Song’s added creative nous to his tough tackling, making 11 assists – the fourth-most in the league.

Playing Song alongside Herrera would give United a midfield containing everything they need for Premier League success and the Cameroon international is an excellent back up plan for Vidal.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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