Why Jean Michael Seri must choose Manchester United over Liverpool this summer
There are quite a lot of fireworks whenever arch-rivals Liverpool and Manchester United face-off on the field but this time, the two clubs will go head-to-head in an intense battle to sign Nice midfielder Jean Michael Seri.
The 26-year-old has been an in-demand player since the last summer window and until now, the French club have managed to keep potential suitors at bay. However, the upcoming transfer window will make it tougher for them to hold onto him and either United or Liverpool could acquire his signature.
But who should it be?
Estimated to cost around £32million, a player like Seri could prove to be a coup deal for either of these two clubs. A central midfielder by trade, the Ivory Coast star is quite creative and extremely attack-oriented but there have been times when he has essayed the role of a defensive midfielder as well.
Throughout the season so far, Seri has chipped in with a solitary goal and 4 assists and the player has created 42 chances in 21 Ligue 1 appearances – which is quite a remarkable number.
Liverpool already have Naby Keita, who is set to arrive at Anfield this summer and in him, they will receive a player quite similar to Seri. They might have to lose Emre Can since the player is expected to join Juventus, but even if that were to happen, it would be better for the Reds to scan the market for a true holding midfielder.
Seri can play that role quite well but he is better equipped when it comes to attacking and considering the prolific displays from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Georginio Wijnaldum over the last couple of weeks, it makes no sense for the club to splash money on purchasing Seri.
United, on the other hand, have quite a void in the middle of the park. With Michael Carrick set to announce his retirement once this season comes to an end, the club will have the likes of Paul Pogba and Marouane Fellaini – both of whose futures are uncertain.
Besides them, they will have Juan Mata and Scott McTominay at hand but a player like Seri could provide a solid boost for them in the centre of the park and Jose Mourinho must do everything he can to beat the Reds to acquire his signature.
Hence, this is a deal that is likely to benefit the Red Devils more than the Merseysiders. If Klopp does succeed in signing Seri, the Nice midfielder will undoubtedly have to forego regular playing time but at Old Trafford, that won’t be the case.