Top Five: Manchester United central midfield transfer targets

Asier Illarramendi – Real Sociedad

Scout Report: Illarramendi is a bit of a dark horse but has the potential to be the best passing midfielder in the world. If he had a number 14 on his back, and a beard, you would think you were watching Xabi Alonso. The similarities are uncanny. His passing range over short, intermediate and long range is exemplary, and in the true Spanish tradition, has excellent positioning and knowledge of the passing game. He moves the ball well and makes himself available to receive the ball. United need someone who can see and find the clever runs of Robin van Persie, and possibly even Robert Lewandowski, and Illarramendi can do that. He makes the game look absurdly easy and could be the fulcrum of an excellent United side.

How much? Sociedad aren’t the wealthiest, but they will fight to keep their young star. However, if offered £15-18m, they could accept.