Why teenager Kumbulla would be a good signing by Manchester United
According to a report by Daily Star, Manchester United are interested in signing Albanian defender Marash Kumbulla.
The 19-year old Hellas Verona centre-back has stood out as one of the most promising young players in the Serie A this season, attracting interest from a lot of European clubs including Manchester United (h/t Daily Star).
Meanwhile, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s United are facing an injury crisis in the defence, with as many as four of its six centre-backs currently sitting out due to respective injuries.
United have had issues in defence since early in the season and it was even more evident in their recent 3-1 loss at home to Manchester City in the EFL Cup semi-final when they were ripped open by a potent City attack.
Also, with Harry Maguire set for an extended stay on the sidelines after sustaining a muscle injury, things have just gone from bad to worse for Solskjaer and United.
With the injury blow hitting them hard, Solskjaer and co. are now in pursuit of a defender and the club have already tabled an offer around £13million for the young Verona ace.
Meanwhile, Verona, are keen on cashing in on Kumbulla but are hopeful to keep him on loan until the end of the season, with the player being integral to coach Ivan Juric’s plans (h/t Daily Star).
Despite it being his debut season, Kumbulla has made 11 appearances for the Serie A side, missing out a few games due to suspension and an arm injury in between. Of the 11 games he has played so far, the youngster has recorded four clean sheets – a proof of the youngster’s talent.
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He has been crucial to his side’s decent defensive record this season which has seen them concede just 20 goals. Only Inter Milan (15), Juventus (17), Lazio (17) and Roma (19) have a better record than them.
The youngster, who is known for his excellent concentration on the pitch, has made some timely interventions and clearances, which have helped his side on numerous occasions.
However, he still has a lot to improve but has already shown immense potential at such a young age.
Verdict
Manchester United are definitely in need of a new defender, with Victor Lindelof and Phil Jones being the only fit defenders around at the moment.
In a crucial juncture such as this, it would be better for the Red Devils to rope in Kumbulla. Moreover, he could be a valuable asset for the future and still has plenty of time to develop. Hence, if such a deal works out Kumbulla, by all means, would be a good signing by Manchester United.