It could be argued there are just as many players being linked with moves away from Old Trafford this summer as there are potential Manchester United targets. Last year’s disastrous campaign is one of the main reasons for this, as new boss Louis van Gaal attempts to address the side’s problems and mould a squad of his own.
Two men who could possibly be on their way out are Marouane Fellaini and Shinji Kagawa. Both midfielders are anything but assured a place in the Red Devils’ starting lineup, and may need to prove themselves worthy of playing for such a huge club in order to prolong their relatively short United careers.
Unlike Kagawa, Fellaini does not have the luxury of being a Premier League winner, with the Japan international’s debut season seeing him help Sir Alex Ferguson’s side clinch the title in what would turn out to be the legendary manager’s final year in charge at Old Trafford. As the first major signing of the unsuccessful David Moyes, United’s £27.5 million Belgian also has a certain stigma attached to him that is not helped by him so far failing to live up to his price tag.
According to the Independent, Napoli is a potential destination for Fellaini, whilst Borussia Dortmund could be willing to take Kagawa back after selling him two years ago. If it is true that neither man features in van Gaal’s plans, seeing the Dutchman offload them should come as no surprise.
At 26 and 25 years of age respectively, both players are still young enough to get over last season’s setback. Moving on from United could possibly be the best way for them to do just that.