Five early summer transfer targets for Manchester United
By Roy Emanuel
![The former Chelsea manager was at his arrogant best as he faced the journalists for the first time at Old Trafford. The former Chelsea manager was at his arrogant best as he faced the journalists for the first time at Old Trafford.](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/06f1f97b7f54812484b680467f9257a631ff5b68a66c8a35b68e5505b44711dc.jpg)
Kostas Manolas – AS Roma
Defensive reinforcements are normally a fantastic place to start when it comes to the summer transfer period, and AS Roma centre-back Kostas Manolas would be a strong signing for Manchester United.
The 25-year old Greek international has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Italian Serie A.
After successful seasons with Olympiacos and an impressive showing for his home nation at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Manolas joined Roma in August of 2014. His combination of strength and pace has helped to solidify the club’s back-line.
Italy’s top flight demands that defenders have great awareness, positioning and a clear understanding of tactics. Along with his physical attributes, Manolas would bring an intelligent football mind to Old Trafford.
The addition of Manolas would be tremendous for Mourinho’s defence moving ahead. Pairing him with another young talent like Eric Bailly gives the United boss a starting combination potentially for years to come, and also allows more line-up flexibility for players like Daley Blind and Marcos Rojo.
Attacking players will certainly be in their plans for the summer, but an excellent place to start for Manchester United may be Kostas Manolas.