One of the biggest complaints about Manchester United’s midfield towards the end of last season was how tired Nemanja Matic looked, with his legs often described as ‘gone’.
The need for a new defensive minded midfielder at Old Trafford has been apparent for quite some time, and while someone like Bruno Fernandes is also required, he isn’t going to help the Serbian’s fitness issues.
Blaise Matuidi, however, might.
The Mino Raiola client is once again being linked to Manchester United, as Juventus’ recent acquisitions of Aaron Ramsey and Adrien Rabiot have left the door open for an exit or two from the older members in midfield.
Both Matuidi and Sami Khedira are labeled as potential casualties, with the Frenchman attracting a bit more top shelf interest than the German.
The France international’s contract in Turin is set to expire next year, and it’s clear that any transfer away from Juventus this summer would be for one last big paycheque, perhaps on a short-term deal.
We can’t see the Serie A champions asking for an over the top fee, which could suit the Red Devils if they see Matuidi as a short-term option (and a quick deal to pull off), should they fail to acquire whomever they want for the role long-term this summer.
It’s one certainly worth considering, especially if it just means rotating Matic and the World Cup winner throughout the year, allowing the latter to have a taste of Premier League football before thinking of winding down his career.