Ashley Cole to Man Utd: A solution to their defensive problems?

Ashley Cole – The left back hailed as one of the best left backs in the world. Is he going to become a Red Devil in the near future? The tabloids are saying so. But any football fan would know that the tabloids report a ton of stories out of which only a handful of transfers actually happen.

But every United fan would be eagerly looking at this news, considering the defensive crisis that has befallen them. A few years back they were hailed as one of the best defence in the world, with Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra anchoring it. But now times have changed. Patrice Evra and Ashley Cole were regarded as the best in their position, but nowadays the former is being criticized for his lacklustre performances in the back. Alex Ferguson has kept his trust on the 31-year-old man and has started him in almost all of United’s matches this season. But is all this bound to change in the near-future?

Alexander Buttner has been brought into the team keeping in mind the lack of options United have in the left back position. He even had a dream debut against Wigan. But then, all United fans would agree that he is still a few years short of becoming a sure-shot starter for United.

That’s where Ashley Cole comes into the picture. He has already rejected the standard one year contract that Chelsea offers to its players who are above the age of 30. Considering his class, he might be right to do so. In a year, he would be a free agent and Manchester United would be hoping to pick him up to strengthen their defence.

This pacy, strong defender could become a great asset to Manchester United if he decides to leave Chelsea. The fact that he is good friends with Wayne Rooney might be helpful. But his problems with Rio Ferdinand in the whole Racism saga might not do United any good if they are hoping to land him next summer.

Carlo Ancelotti, a few weeks back, praised him as the best left back in the world. If United are not careful, PSG will allure him with all the money and glamour and in no time he might be packing his bags to France. PSG also has the option of holding talks with him in January while United would have to wait till the season ends, according to Premier League rules.

But all said, landing him could essentially mean the end of Evra’s career at United. With Fabio and Buttner already available at the left back positions, there will be no lack of options for United if they fail to land Cole next summer. Considering his age and salary, United might as well not pursue this left back and he might end up staying in Chelsea or he could make a move to PSG. Well, the ball is in Ashley Cole’s court now and we can all wait and see how the saga ends.