Manchester set to swoop for World Cup Star To Strengthen Defence

Manchester United’s problems in defense are evident. Thus the rumour mill doesn’t have any problems to link every possible centre back to the Red Devils. According to reports from the DAILY STAR, United are reportedly preparing a £4m January bid for Aston Villa captain Ron Vlaar.

Vlaar was one of the key figures for Netherlands in the World Cup under Louis Van Gaal and has been thought about as a possible player who can be roped in by the Old Trafford outfit to fit in the back four. United have looked immensely vulnerable at the back after Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic all left the club in the summer to pursue their career elsewhere. Moreover with niggling injuries to Johnny Evans, Phil Jones and card issues to Taylor Blackett haven’t helped. Also the poor form of Chris Smalling have promted Van Gaal to look for defensive cover and Vlaar is being thought about as an option.

Vlaar’s contract at Villa Park runs out at the end of the season and there have been no signs over a potential possible extension. Though Paul Lambert won’t be willing to part with his prized asset, Vlaar would find it hard to turn down a chance to feature for United. This makes the situation tricky for Villa. The Midlands clubs won’t be willing to let the player move for free, thus would look to get the best deal in the upcoming winter transfer window.

Arsenal and Southampton are also interested in the player, but it remains clear that Vlaar would like to play under Van Gaal. The legendary Dutch manager is understood to be preparing a £4m bid to test Villa’s resolve to retain Vlaar’s services. So can the bid materialize and can United solve their woes in the back four? Only time shall tell.