Popular alternative becomes the next United target

With the failure to capture the bargain signing of the summer in Thiago Alcantara from Barcelona and the seemingly dwindling chances of obtaining the services of his team mate Cesc Fabregas, United have extended their sights on one of the most popular names bandied about amongst fans since his tremendous all action performances in last seasons Champions League campaign, Ilkay Gündogan.

The talented box-to-box midfielder has been alerted to United’s interest and reports suggest he’s keen to follow Shinji Kagawa from Borussia Dortmund to Old Trafford.

Dortmund Head Coach Jurgen Klopp however, is unlikely to want the 22-year-old German International to leave the club and could play hard ball as he has by retaining the services of the much admired and sought after Robert Lewandowski despite him only having one-year remaining on his contract.

A serious bid for Gündogan will be well received by many, there will however be the cynical few who believe it’s another attempt to pull the wool over fans’ eyes.

At £20 million, Gündogan is priced to stay put, but if United can pull it off it could prove to be money well spent if he quickly fills the gaping hole in central midfield.

What his capture or public pursuit does to the pursuit of Cesc Fabregas is unknown. Again, the cynical few will have you believe it’s a move designed to force Fabregas’ and Barcelona’s hand, the even more cynical will suggest neither target is probable or serious and it’s designed to deceive. Some however believe there’s a chance United could sign both.

Personally I think Moyes is beginning to get a bit twitchy because he knows his time is running out thanks to the clause written in Marounne Fellaini’s contract in which his £22 million release fee expires on the 31st July. He wants to tie up at least one central midfielder before that date arrives.

I suspect Moyes wants to avoid pilfering Everton out of respect for his old club and also for friend and Chairman, Bill Kenwright. It’s difficult to believe Moyes did not build a great personal relationship during his 11-year tenure at Everton which, all being well, is an attribute that will stand him in good stead for the coming years at United, after all, the last thing United need right now is Manager and Board at loggerheads.

However, If Moyes does fail to complete at least one central midfield signing by the 31st July, expect him to regretfully turn his attention on Everton and sign Fellaini.

Do you think Moyes is enjoying this? Ha surely he must be, it’s a far cry from what he’s used to!

Is Gündogan the right choice, is it money well spent at £20 million?

What about Fellaini, is he the man Moyes should target? After all, he’s proven, he’s versatile and Moyes knows exactly how to get the best out of him.