Manchester United pursuing move for another Liverpool target
By Kian Long
Manchester United just won’t give Liverpool a break in this transfer window…
With the World Cup in full swing, it’s easy to forget about the transfer window. However, clubs are still hard at work, with the aim of improving their side heading into the new season. This is definitely the case for two of England’s biggest clubs, Liverpool and Manchester United.
They must work hard in order to prevent the dominance of Manchester City. The Premier League is very much a money-orientated league, so to keep up with the best, you need to spend.
Liverpool have already brought in Naby Keita and Fabinho as their two stars, while United strengthened in midfield with Fred.
The two have been involved in transfer tussles already. United were likely to sign Fabinho before Liverpool swept in and took the Brazilian. Also, after Liverpool terminated their interest in Nabil Fekir, United tried to sign him.
According to reports from the Sun, United are considering a swoop for Xherdan Shaqiri. The attacker could leave Stoke City for a fee of just £12m.
Another loss for Liverpool?
I’ll be the first one to say it – Xherdan Shaqiri is not a world beater. If Liverpool do lose him to United, it’s not the end of the world.
However, there has been heavy analysis on whether or not Shaqiri would suit Liverpool, and all the signs point towards ‘yes’.
Jurgen Klopp adopts a high pressing style. In order to carry this out, he must have both ruthless, as well as speedy attackers. Sound familiar, Xherdan?
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Shaqiri’s bulky yet short frame allows him the bursts of pace needed, while also being able to hold his own when need be.
Don’t be fooled, he would still suit Manchester United.
It’s clear what Jose Mourinho wants, and he will do whatever it takes to get it. Even isolating one of the most promising talents, Anthony Martial.
The main reason why Martial isn’t getting game-time at United is his inability to track back and help from a defensive standpoint. He is seen as a ‘luxury player’, which is never going to get you far under Mourinho.
Shaqiri has the ability to not only track back, but track back well. More often than not, he was the only one to do this for Stoke City, which may explain their poor performances.
Versatility is important for Shaqiri to reignite his career. He had a successful World Cup campaign with Switzerland, so wherever he is next season, he will arrive with great confidence.
Next: Manchester United pursue talented Chelsea winger
Where do you think Xherdan Shaqiri should sign?