Maddison could be the missing piece in attacking jigsaw
IT is well documented that James Maddison is on United’s radar and this January Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should make the midfielder his number one target.
In Solskjaer’s first transfer window as permanent manager he outlined his vision and blueprint for the Reds, with the signings of Harry Maguire, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Daniel James.
The new, hungry, contingent of young British players have significantly strengthened the Norwegian’s side and despite United making their worst start to a season for 33 years, the new signings have all been standout performers, emerging with credit.
The Reds’ defence is now reformed, and they look resilient at the back and assured in possession, having only conceded 11 goals so far this campaign, the fifth lowest total in the league.
And with United’s defensive woes now seemingly in the past, Solskjaer’s attention and resources in the transfer window will now surely be directed towards revamping his attack which has, on more than one occasion, looked toothless this season.
Maddison could be the perfect signing, offering United a new creative dimension.
The Englishman could be the final piece of the jigsaw to Solskjaer’s attacking conundrum, and the stats suggest the Reds should make a move quick, before their rivals lay claim to his signature.
The transfer could also prove to be timely, as Juan Mata, one of United’s most consistent creative talents over the years, inevitably has his first-team involvement reduced with age and Maddison could be the perfect antidote.
On chances created, Maddison competes with the league’s best, having created 21 chances so far this campaign, while Sadio Mane (21) and Raheem Sterling (22) keep Maddison on his toes.
Maddison, along with Jadon
Sancho, has been a signing that the United faithful have dreamed of and while the signing of the Borussia Dortmund winger seems unlikely, after the winger signed a new deal in Germany, the acquisition of Maddison is still possible.
The Leicester man would command a hefty price tag, like former team-mate Maguire, however for a 22-year-old Englishman, the transfer would be an investment.
Maddison’s vision and sublime technical ability ensures he’s also versatile, and he would be more than comfortable playing in the No.10 position, while also being able to play in the centre of the pitch, in a deep lying role.
United have also looked frail when playing away from home this season, and Maddison – who created eight chances away against Crystal Palace, the most by a player in a Premier League away game this season – certainly wouldn’t shirk away from the big occasion away from Old Trafford.