Five Right Backs Who Could Be The Answer At Old Trafford

Seamus Coleman

Seamus Coleman was a revelation in the 2013-14 season; scoring an impressive six goals from right back for a free-flowing Everton side and firmly establishing himself as the Premier League’s best attacking right back.

This season the Donegal man’s performances have dropped along with his teams’ and he’s not been quite as impressive. Despite this drop in level the Irishman could still be a very good signing for a Champions League club. Should Van Gaal prefer to look closer to home for a new right-back; Coleman is definitely worth taking a look at.

Often playing more like an inside forward than a full-back; Coleman is very comfortable on the ball, calling on a range of passes, crosses and shots that many attackers would be proud of.

His ability to make timely runs from deep and cut into the opposition area, however, remains his biggest strength, not to mention his explosive pace. He’s no fool defensively, either. If he can recapture his form from a season ago he could be a valuable asset for this United side and is, again, quite an upgrade on United’s current options.

Suitability: Not an obvious choice, but could be a solid signing.

Estimated Fee: £15-20million

---

Matteo Darmian

Probably the most talented fullback in Europe not currently turning out for a Champions League club; Matteo Darmian is a star on the rise. Having joined Torino while they were in Serie B, Darmian progressed in the same manner as his club, gradually establishing himself in Serie A and going from strength to strength.

His efforts and impressive performances were rewarded by a place in the Italy squad for the 2014 World Cup; turning out in all three of the Azzuri’s games and being one of the few to emerge from their disappointing tournament with any credit.

The 2014-15 season has been a poor one for Torino and now it’s expected that Darmian will seek richer pastures this summer. A move to a top European club is almost certain. Whilst a move to Juventus or Roma is more likely, there is talk of interest from United and Arsenal also.

Darmian is a superb stopper on the right side of defence who fulfils his more pragmatic duties with enthusiasm and ease. He is also more than capable of contributing in attack, though he will look to improve his crossing and create more chances in future. At the age of twenty-five Darmian is approaching his peak and any suitors for his signature will be confident they are securing a player for his best years.

Suitability: Prodigiously talented. A world class player in waiting.

Estimated Fee: At least £25million, with a number of clubs interested and driving up the price.

---

Nathaniel Clyne

For a long time it looked certain that Nathaniel Clyne would join United. Despite the club seemingly now pursuing alternative targets, they could still return to Clyne should they fail to secure players elsewhere.

Certainly the most achievable target on this list, it remains to be seen whether United feel he can do a job at Old Trafford. Noises emanating from Southampton have changed considerably in recent weeks with talk of a departure making way for talk of a new contract being signed.

Clyne has been a key player for Southampton since their promotion to the Premier League three years ago and has been linked with a move to a bigger club for some time. He is still quite young and he’s English, which would help with home-grown quota, though there are still question marks over whether he can cut it at the highest level of the game.

In that regard, a move for Clyne would be a substantial risk, though he remains perhaps the most realistic target on this list.

Suitability: Talented, but with much room to improve. A risk.

Estimated Fee: £15-20million.