Arturo Vidal – 27 Years Old

When discussing the best central midfielder in the world the debate typically revolves around two players, Yaya Toure and Arturo Vidal. The Chilean is a destructive and creative force, combative in the heart of midfield, Vidal’s performances for Juventus in the last few seasons have been outstanding and has been their standout player in the period along with fellow midfielder Andrea Pirlo. Whilst Pirlo draws the plaudits for his creativity, that freedom is afforded due to the industrious play of Vidal, a box-to-box midfielder that covers every blade of grass his work off the ball is almost as significant as what he does on it. Arriving late in the box, unmarked, Vidal is a constant goal threat having scored 18 goals in the previous season. On the other side of the pitch Vidal breaks up play on a regular basis averaging over four tackles per game, a trait that can get him noticed by the referee. Not the biggest physically, Vidal is still an imposing presence over the pitch and an often overlooked player when it comes to aerial battles. Though Juventus have struggled in the Champions League, that hasn’t been a result of Vidal’s play who was outstanding in their recent campaign scoring 5 goals in 6 games, proving that he is capable of playing on the biggest stage and performing consistently.

Where would he fit in?

In the very large hole that currently resides in United’s central midfield. The signing of Ander Herrera looks to be in the offing but the team lacks a player of Vidal’s skill set and quite frankly there aren’t many around who can match Vidal’s performances. The team have lacked a real box-to-box presence for many years, someone who can contribute goals from central midfield whilst not sacrificing any defensive solidity.

Chances of Signing? 

Both Paul Pogba and Vidal have been linked with moves away from Juventus, The Old Lady however has no need to sell either stars but if Pogba were to leave it would seem a near impossibility that they would part ways with Vidal. Though that hasn’t stopped rumours linking Vidal with a move away from Juventus, and if the alleged €45million asking price is true, there may be a queue of suitors waiting to lure Vidal to their club but a high price and big wages doesn’t seem to fit the United checklist this season.

 

Bastian Schweinsteiger – 29 Years Old

A graduate of the Bayern Munich youth system, Schweinsteiger has developed from a capable winger to one of the world’s best central midfielders. He is stereotypically German in his play with a methodical approach to the game his consistency, effectiveness and efficiency in midfield is incredible. Schweinsteiger’s ball retention and passing ability is perhaps the most noticeable asset to his game, his days as a winger mean that he is very comfortable on the ball and has excellent dribbling skills for a player in the heart of midfield. A perfect combination of physical and technical ability, his size makes him a force in the centre of the pitch that will be able to compete against any player on the planet. A bonus to his game is ability on set pieces which make opponents wary of conceding any chances around their own area and his accuracy from long range makes the opposition have to close him down quickly which can open spaces in behind for more advanced players.

Where would he fit in?  

Schweinsteiger’s passing ability would make him a replacement for the departed Paul Scholes, a void United have yet to fill but he provides a more complete and undoubtedly far more talented alternative to Michael Carrick. Given United’s loss of leadership during this summer, Schweinsteiger’s experience in that department would help solidify the team.

Chances of Signing?

Another former player of Louis van Gaal, he won’t be the last to be linked with a move to United this summer but combine that with this past season in which he played his joint fewest games over the course of a season since being promoted to the senior side ten years ago, there may be a case for the Bavarian to leave his home and set up camp in the red half of Manchester.