Man Utd set to move for Coleman – sources
The ESPN FC crew discuss the continued Sergio Ramos rumours to Manchester United, but Steve Nicol does not feel Ramos is worth the cost.
Manchester United are ready to make a move for Everton defender Seamus Coleman as they look to solve their problematic right-back spot, sources have told ESPN FC.
Louis van Gaal is aiming to strengthen his side’s defence this summer, with a new right-back a top priority.
Rafael da Silva has failed to impress Van Gaal as Antonio Valencia was forced to fill in at right-back for the majority of last season.
A number of players have been linked to fill the role, including Barcelona’s Dani Alves and Southampton’s Nathaniel Clyne, but United have missed out on the pair with Alves signing a new deal at the Camp Nou and England international Clyne on the verge of a move to Liverpool.
And sources say United are now ready to pursue a move for Coleman, a long-term target for the Old Trafford club, who considered making a move for the Irishman during the January transfer window.
Everton’s Seamus Coleman could be the answer to Man United’s problems at right-back.
Coleman has established himself as one of the best attacking full-backs in the Premier League after breaking into the Everton side under David Moyes.
Everton signed Coleman for a bargain £60,000 from Sligo Rovers in 2009, but it was only after a successful loan spell at Blackpool that Coleman came to the fore at Goodison Park.
The buccaneering full-back has been a mainstay in the Everton side in the last three seasons and he was rewarded with a new five-year deal last summer to keep him on Merseyside until 2019.
Van Gaal is a big admirer of the Republic of Ireland international, sources say, and believes he would be well suited to play further forward in a 3-5-2 or in the 4-4-2.
Coleman’s new deal shows Everton are determined to keep hold of the 26-year-old, but they must be bracing for renewed interest from United as Van Gaal looks to build a side capable of challenging for the Premier League title.
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