Manchester United are expected to sign a marquee centre-back this summer and they have been constantly linked with Juventus’ Gleison Bremer.
The Brazilian has been closely monitored by United scouts. It has been reported that the hierarchy could make a serious effort to land his signature later this year.
However, we believe the club should instead focus on Sporting’s Ousmane Diomande, who has made tremendous progress since his move from Midtjylland.
The Ivory Coast international is one of the most sought-after young centre-backs. He could be prised away for his current release clause of €80 million.
Diomande would be a perfect centre-back signing
Bremer has been one of Serie A’s best performing centre-backs, but we don’t believe he would represent good business. The Brazilian will be 27 before the end of March.
He will cost a premium fee of around €60m. The extra time to adapt could mean that he may not provide value for money. Bremer could be past his prime in a few seasons.
On the other hand, Diomande has only recently turned 20. The Ivorian sensation has huge potential and would be a brilliant long-term acquisition for the Red Devils.
Looking at the stats, Diomande has averaged 60 passes per league game this term with an accuracy of 91 per cent. In comparison, Bremer averages 47 passes with a 87 per cent success rate.
Defensively, the youngster has won 61 per cent of his duels with 5.7 recoveries. This is also slightly better than Bremer, who has won 58 per cent of his duels with 5.2 recoveries.
In our view, Diomande would be a better buy for United despite his lesser experience.
United should have no problems in meeting the wage demands of Diomande, who currently earns €11,000 weekly.
On the contrary, Bremer is already on a staggering €178,000-a-week. He may demand a further hike on his current wages.
One thing is for sure, Diomande is unlikely to join the club unless he has the assurance of a regular starting position.
If he were to join United, Raphael Varane looks most likely to head for the exit door. His current deal expires at the end of June.
Stats from Sofascore.com & Capology.com
