Why Juventus’ Alex Sandro Would Be Perfect For Manchester United
According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United have prioritised signing Juventus full-back Alex Sandro to replace Luke Shaw at the end of the season.
Luke Shaw has endured an injury-hit campaign and has failed to force his way into the first team, with Jose Mourinho preferring Ashley Young over him at left-back.
Young’s resurgence at left-back has kept Shaw out of the team and while the latter rediscovered his form during winter, the United manager still isn’t convinced with the England international’s progress and that could see the player leave in summer.
United’s only natural left-back in the squad at the moment is Shaw and should he leave in summer, Mourinho will need to find a long-term solution at that position. In that case, Juventus’ Alex Sandro would be a perfect addition
Sandro has enjoyed another wonderful season for Juventus, playing almost 40 games as the club edge towards the Serie A title. Since joining Juve, the 27-year-old has been one of the most effective full-backs in world football.
Sandro possesses flair and skill going forward, typical of famous Brazilian fullbacks over the years. He is an attacking left-back and Juventus boss Max Allegri has often used him as a left wing-back this season due to his exceptional attacking skills.
The Brazilian’s ability from set-pieces and crossing gives Juventus an element that they have lacked for years. With his speed and agility, Sandro can run past any player with ease and defend with aplomb. His defending has improved this season as he has focused on the basics. Being a precise tackler has helped him iron out some flaws.
Sandro has improved leaps and bounds defensively but his actual game is all about attacking the opposition. With his blinding pace and power, the Brazilian is such a dangerous customer packed with a powerful shot.
His runs are very hard to track while the deliveries from left are wicked and vicious. Sandro’s work-ethic and stamina simply highlight how well-rounded his game is and why he will be an inch-perfect player for Mourinho.
Sandro’s ball control is also exquisite, while his passing has significantly improved since last season. The extra attacking flair he adds to Juventus is something spectacular and what stands out for Sandro is that he rarely concedes possession. The 27-year-old is playing at the peak of his powers and has adapted very well to the Italian style of football.
Generally, it takes time for a player to adapt to a different league but due to Sandro’s strength and pace, he won’t take much time to adjust to the Premier League.
My thought after watching him play for Juventus is that Sandro could improve even more. At 27, he is playing at his peak but there is room for development.
Under Mourinho, the Brazilian would be able to achieve that, thereby providing a long-term solution at left-back for Manchester United.