Why Man United are unlikely to sign £16m Belgian star
Manchester United have been credited with an interest in Club Brugge’s left-back Maxim De Cuyper.
The 24-year-old is a product of Club Brugge’s youth academy and has been their first-choice left-back since last season.
The Belgian helped the Blue-Blacks win the league last season, registering three goals and ten assists. He has continued his strong performances this term for Nicky Hayen’s side.
In addition to his eight goal involvements, he ranks third for expected assists (xA), second for big chances created, and joint third for key passes per game in the Belgian top flight.
De Cuyper has attracted interest from United, Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan, and German outfit RB Leipzig.
Securing his signature would cost around £16 million, according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri. This should make him affordable for Man United.
While he has the potential to be an excellent signing for United, they are not expected to prioritise a new left wing-back in the summer, as they already have sufficient options in that position.
The Mancunian giants spent £25.2m in January to sign Danish international Patrick Dorgu, who is viewed as a long-term solution for the left-back or left-wing-back role.
Dorgu has yet to make a substantial impact at United. He recently served a three-game suspension and struggled in Tuesday’s defeat to Nottingham Forest.
However, he has the potential to succeed at United. If he does not, the club already have viable alternatives.
Paraguayan youngster Diego Leon is one of such options. He will arrive from Cerro Porteno in the summer and is expected to provide competition for Dorgu.
England international Luke Shaw remains an option despite his recurring fitness issues.
Academy prospect Harry Amass is another alternative. He has made the matchday squad in the last two league games.
United must strengthen other positions in the summer, so a move for De Cuyper appears highly unlikely.
Stats from transfermarkt.com & sofascore.com
Article written by Henry Thornton .