Why Borussia Dortmund's Ilkay Gundogan can improve Manchester United's midfield

Ilkay Gundogan

Manchester United have suffered this season, and much of that suffering is being traced back to central midfield. Marouane Fellaini was the big purchase on deadline day, but he has failed to impress so far, with many doubting whether he is of Man United quality. Whilst the name of Ander Herrera has been heavily linked, Moyes would struggle to do better than sign Dortmund’s Ilkay Gundogan.

The German midfielder would be the perfect fix for a disjointed United midfield, and his future at Dortmund appears to be in doubt. Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke told press: “Only in the case of Ilkay Gundogan, we do not yet know how it will turn out. We would love to extend (a contract) with him.” However, despite several attempts to renew, no successful conclusion has been reached yet. His current deal expires at the end of next season. If sold in the summer, Gundogan is likely to command a fee of around £25million.

Mobility has been an issue in the United midfield and Gundogan would be the perfect remedy for this problem. Being such a technically good footballer, many often overlook the sheer amount of work he puts into his game. He covers a lot of ground in each game and would add much needed energy to United’s midfield. Whilst talented, Fellaini, Carrick and Jones are often criticised for their lack of mobility, leaving the United midfield overrun on many occasions this season, especially against Man City at the Etihad a few months ago.

Having barely featured this season due to a persistent injury, a deal could be complicated, but last season he proved himself as one of the best midfielders in Europe.

With 51 tackles at an 80% success rate, only Carrick from Man Utd won more tackles (58) last season. When you realise Carrick featured in eight more games, Ilkay’s stats look even more impressive. The standout stat though comes in his take-on ability. With 58 take-ons in just 28 games; he is miles ahead of any other Manchester United central midfielder in this department. He has a unique ability to beat a player and it is something that is clearly missing at Old Trafford.

No United central midfielder managed more than 12 take-ons in the whole of last season. He is a very good reader of the game, making 63 interceptions last season, only Carrick bettered that from United (76). The next closest central midfielder was Cleverley with 16. These statistics help illustrate just how much of a significant signing Gundogan would be.

Manchester United fans will hope a player of his calibre can be acquired in January, but realistically, such a purchase in the winter window may not be feasible. To sign the best you often have to wait until the summer. Whilst Ander Herrera seems more likely in January, it may be worth being patient and holding out for Gundogan.