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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Casey Evans

Manchester United should already know their transfer decision on Josko Gvardiol

Though the winner of the World Cup has not yet been decided but many fans already know who they believe should be awarded the Young Player of the Tournament award.

20-year-old defender Josko Gvardiol has been a key part of Croatia's run to the semi-finals as a reliable and imperious presence at the back. His highlight real includes last-ditch tackles and impressive ball carrying from the back amongst a number of other impressive feats.

So after his performances in Qatar and also with his club RB Leipzig, it is no surprise that a number of top clubs are interested in him, including Manchester United. Reports in Germany have linked Erik ten Hag's side with a move however Gvardiol's price tag could reach nearly €100m.

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But do United need to sign Gvardiol even if it is clear that he is an exceptional defender?

In the summer, United spent around £49m to bring Lisandro Martinez to Old Trafford this summer and he has already revolutionised the team's defence. But with Raphael Varane's injuries, many fans have stated that Ten Hag needs to bring in another to play alongside the Argentinian in the long term.

There is one issue, however. Gvardiol is left-footed and this would put him in direct competition with Martinez.

The reason that Martinez is so effective is due to his passing range and this is helped by the fact that he is a left-footed defender playing on the left-hand side of the back four. Varane or Harry Maguire who are usually deployed alongside him are right-footed.

This would therefore be a hindrance to Gvardiol if he was signed.

It is clear he is an exceptional defender and if he moves to Chelsea he will likely massively improve their defence. But for United it not a question of the quality of the player, but rather where he fits in.

On too many occasions United have spent big money to bring in a player without understanding how he fits into their team and with the price tag attached to Gvardiol, this would hinder Ten Hag spending in other areas. Although the allure of the Croatian is warranted, the club may be best served avoiding any temptation to bring him to Old Trafford.

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