Back in January, when transfer talk surrounding Benfica defender Victor Lindelof first emerged, Manchester United central defender Eric Bailly publicly expressed his approval. He was in favor of the idea, knowing that he could have a new and better partner in central defense.
He must be especially excited today as Lindelof became the very first signing of the 2017 summer transfer window for United yesterday, agreeing to a £30.75 million, four year deal.
He was at Carrington training ground today to complete his medical and then sign his new contract, which could end up manifesting a transfer fee of close to £40 million if/when potential add-ons kick in.
Lindelof posed for his first pictures in his new red United shirt, and then instant analysis of the acquisition began all over the football world.
Victor Lindelof provides an upgrade over all the other options United have to pair with Eric Bailly in the center of their back line. Marcos Rojo has his moments, but he’s not a star by any means.
He’s more suited to play at left or right back anyway. Chris Smalling and Phil Jones endured rough seasons in which they were slowed by injuries. Daley Blind is solid and versatile, but he isn’t the specialist at the position that Lindelof is. United really had a need here, and credit them with going out and spending the money to fill it.
A statement attributed to Jose Mourinho reads:
“Victor is a very talented young player, who has a great future ahead of him at United. Our season last year showed us that we need options and quality to add depth to the squad and Victor is the first to join us this summer. I know that our fantastic group of players will welcome him as one of us.”
The statement attributed to Victor Lindelof is below:
“I am thrilled to be joining Manchester United. I have enjoyed my time at Benfica enormously and I have learned a lot there. But I’m looking forward to playing in the Premier League at Old Trafford and for Jose Mourinho. I’m keen to get started and make my contribution to the team’s efforts to win more trophies.”
Read @VLindelof's first #MUTV interview in full: https://t.co/16IzrDvuPA #HejVictor pic.twitter.com/fjOJ5zoT0t
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 15, 2017
#HejVictor is the hashtag for this deal, a la #Pogback for the Paul Pogba return last summer.
This should be the beginning of a very active and very exciting summer transfer window at Old Trafford. Alvaro Morata could be the next player to join the Red Devils, as there has been a ton of talk swirling about his potential arrival from Real Madrid.
We’ve also seen reporting indicating that United are looking to acquire a holding midfielder and winger.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network and News Now. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, currently contributes to WGN CLTV and KOZN.
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