With Christian Eriksen out injured until late April, Manchester United moved quickly to secure a deadline day move for Marcel Sabitzer.
The Austrian midfielder has moved to Old Trafford on a six-month loan deal from Bayern Munich as a replacement for Eriksen. The club have been linked with the 28-year-old in the past, but a move has only materialised now due to Eriksen being sidelined.
According to reports, United approached multiple clubs in their search for a midfielder. One such player was Houssem Aouar from Lyon, who only has six months remaining on his contract with the French club.
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The 24-year-old was once one of the most highly-rated talents in Europe, but he has never truly lived up to his potential. Reports from France stated that United were exploring a deal for the player but the club were not tempted to move for him before settling on Sabitzer.
Aouar's dribbling ability from deeper areas would have been an asset alongside his passing ability but, much like Eriksen, he doesn't have the greatest impact on the game when his team doesn't have possession. Given United were looking for a temporary fix, the fact he is younger doesn't really come into play.
For what United need right now, Sabitzer is a much better fit.
Though Bayern allowed him to go on loan, he is still a great player. He was also impressive at RB Leipzig prior to his move and has experience in European competition.
He may not have the passing ability of Eriksen or Aouar, but off the ball he is an engine. His defensive output will allow United to stop transitions more effectively and when the team wins possession back his ball-carrying ability will allow the team to progress up the pitch quickly.
The way United have conducted themselves in the January transfer market has been exceptional given the circumstances. They were able to bring in a goalkeeper and striker, and when Eriksen was injured they brought in a replacement who is potentially better for the role than the player he is taking the spot of.
Chelsea haven't been shy when it comes to splashing the cash this transfer window, but it's a window that may keep United ahead of the London club in the race for the top four.
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