It’s not rocket science to understand that both Arsenal and Manchester United are in dire need of defenders in the upcoming January transfer window. While the Red Devils have a lot of injury concerns at the back and have been unable to replace Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic in the summer, Arsenal also failed to sign a centre back which is clearly the need of the hour. It thus appears that both of these fierce rivals will go all out to sign a centre back in the upcoming winter transfer window. ‘
According to reports in English Media Outlet DAILY EXPRESS, Winston Reid could be the defender that both the clubs are looking at. Despite West Ham having a stunning start to the season beating the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City at home, Reid is reluctant to sign a new deal with the Hammers. West Ham are willing to offer the New Zealand International a £75,000-a-week in a six year deal but have so far failed to convince the player to sign his extension at Upton Park . Reid’ hesitancy to sign a new deal clearly indicates that he might leave the club.
The centre back has a contract only till the end of the season and should he not sign an extension, West Ham wouldn’t risk to lose him on a free next summer. United have been very thin defensively and the Red Devils will also be without Marcos Rojo for this weekend’s clash against Crystal Palace as manager Louis Van Gaal will be not be able to field a proper defensive line. Arsenal too dont have a centre back to fall back upon if Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny are injured. This would mean that Arsene Wenger who recently highlighted the need for defenders will look to sign Reid on a cut price deal.