Serie A Midfielder Could End Up At Manchester United, But What Could He Offer?

I almost put money on this transfer going ahead in the summer I was that confident of it happening, but as it is he went to Roma. I am of course referring to Netherlands international Kevin Strootman. After missing out on the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Thiago Alcantara and Ander Herrera, I thought that this would be the one, but alas. Now the same paper, the Daily Mail, reporting the links to the names I just mentioned have quoted PSV Eindhoven gaffer Dick Advocaat regarding the future of the midfielder.

He said: “Strootman is a pure professional.

“It frankly surprised me that he did not get to the absolute top last summer and was on the side a little.

“I do not think he will stay at Roma that long. If Kevin is at this level, he will be plucked away. And then it will be a team of the calibre of Manchester United.”

But if he did land in Manchester, what could he offer?

He is a technically brilliant player who has been key to Roma’s success this season. The Serie A club sit top of the table and Strootman has played in 11 of their 12 games.

He is a player who sits in the centre of midfield and keeps thing moving. His defensive approach allows the attacking outlets to do their thing with freedom, but unlike Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini, he holds the energy levels and the agility to burst up the pitch when needed, without having to worry about being caught out.

We asked back in August whether or not United had missed a trick with Strootman, and looking at the statistics I’d have to say yes. He has scored twice, claimed five assists and completed 88% of his passes this term, while averaging 3.5 tackles per game.

The bounce that he provides in the middle is brilliant, but when you can back it up with such high technical ability then it needs to be recognised.

Watch this clip to see why I am so excited about the 23-year-old’s future.