Having started the new season in much the same way as they finished the last, Manchester United have been linked with a whole host of new names in the morning papers. Alongside concluding a deal for Sporting Lisbon’s want-away fullback Marcos Rojo, and with Arturo Vidal still seemingly undertaking football’s most thorough medical, the media have been quick to link some fresh faces with a move to Old Trafford.
Following Saturday’s abject defeat to Swansea City, Louis van Gaal was asked if he felt there was a need for some fresh blood to be added to the squad.
“Yes, but I have thought that before this match, so it is no different. When we were playing in the US, I thought the same. I know in what positions we need better players. But you have to buy only when the player can fulfil the way of playing that I ask. We have to wait and see.”
Fredy Guarin
With a potential move for Juventus enforcer Arturo Vidal looking less likely by the day, despite the Chilean World Cup star having undertaken countless “medicals” this summer, United have reportedly turned their attention to Columbian midfielder Fredy Guarin. Following reports over the weekend of United’s interest, the Inter Milan man’s agent has today claimed he has had contact with United officials, namely, Fred the Red.
Angel Di Maria
Two pillars of journalistic integrity, The Daily Mail and Twitter, claim that Real Madrid wide man and ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ star Angel Di Maria could be heading to Old Trafford for around £50 million. Di Maria was a consistently impressive performer for Real Madrid last season and was instrumental in securing “La Decima”, but could still be heading for the exit following the summer arrival of James Rodriguez and the emergence of Gareth Bale at The Bernabéu.
Douglas Costa
If United decide against spending big bucks on Di Maria, they could reportedly snap up Shakhtar Donetsk star Douglas Costa for a paltry £40 million! The prodigiously talented Costa was one of six Shakhtar players who had initially refused to return to the Ukraine following the recent outbreaks of violence in the region, but even the ongoing trouble in Ukraine might not be enough to convince the Brazilian that Manchester is a better option, with Arsenal and Milan also interested.
Mehdi Benatia
The Roma defender has in recent days emerged as the leading target to bring some strength and experience to United’s alarming defensive unit. The Moroccan international enjoyed an impressive 2014 in Serie A, and Italian newspaper ‘Il Messaggero’ claims that United will go head-to-head with Bayern Munich so try and secure the defender’s signature.
Philippe Mexes
If When Ed Woodward fails to bring in any of the names mentioned above, United could turn to “experienced” French international Phillipe Mexes to help plug the gaps at the back. The AC Milan defender has just one season remaining on his current deal and would offer and cheaper, albeit short-term, alternative. Shades of Laurent Blanc with this one.
The Red Half of Surrey 
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