Manchester United could go for an Amad-like wing-back that Christopher Vivell knows well as Rúben Amorim looks for reinforcements.
Since becoming the full-time director of recruitment at Manchester United, Christopher Vivell has been working to overhaul the club’s transfer policy in line with the data-driven, youth-centred approach INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe have envisaged.
The former Red Bull Leipzig technical director has numerous different contacts and networks he can call upon as he looks to enact what INEOS want to see from the new transfer system at the club.
Most notably during his time with the Red Bull group, he was involved in deals for Erling Haaland, Josko Gvardiol and Karim Adeyemi. Vivell has already begun to leave his mark on the club, using his Red Bull links as the club signed Benjamin Šeško this summer, who he also brought to the Red Bull group.
The wing-back position is a concern for the club. Amad is one of the few wing-backs (though not a traditional one) who is beginning to show some form, and with AFCON approaching, United may lose the Ivorian for a period. Adding another player who could deputise during this time is key.
United eye up Alajbegovic move
According to Ciaran McCarthy of TeamTalk, one of the players United are showing interest in is Kerim Alajbegovic of Red Bull Salzburg. With Salzburg being one of the teams Vivell has close ties with, it is no surprise to see United linked.
The Bosnian winger has showcased his attacking flair at a young age, already having scored four goals and got one assist in the league for Salzburg. He also made history as he became the youngest Bosnian international and goalscorer ever.
However, United will have competition for the young starlet’s signature with FC Porto and Chelsea also closely monitoring the player, according to reports from Germany.
Bayern Leverkusen also have a buy-back clause for the player, should they wish to beat all other teams to sign him directly.
How could he fit in at wing-back?
With Alajbegovic being a winger, it is easy to think that he is just another player being forced out of position. The Bosnian has played mainly off the left and right flanks, featuring at right back only once.
However, Amad also largely featured on the wings before being utilised in the wing-back department. Despite having alot more defensive actions to do of course, Amad has continued to show his attacking prowess in recent times as his partnership with Bryan Mbeumo has grown.
It will be a significant change for the young winger, but Alajbegovic is showing signs of being a world-class talent regardless.
According to FBRef, in the Europa League this season, he ranks in the 96th percentile among wingers for shot-creating actions and successful take-ons. He is also in the 93rd percentile for progressive carries.
He will need to iron out the defensive side of his game, and this may be a challenge in the toughest league in the world. Despite this, he has the tools to be a devastating attacking player for United, and his versatility, similar to Amad’s, could be fruitful for the club.
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