Top Five: Manchester United midfield targets instead of Thiago Alcantara

Lars Bender – Bayer Leverkusen

Lars Bender

Scout Report Bender is one of the best destroying midfielders and one of the most athletic players in Europe at the moment. Bender’s strong suit is disrupting the opposition before starting counter attacks. This would fit the counter attacking style United’s current personnel is suited to. He makes tackles and interceptions in great quantity, mostly because of elite positioning, then has the ability to distribute the ball. He’s a tidy if unexciting passer of the ball but is a strong mover and can become a real force. Potentially also a long term successor to Carrick whilst United look for a more artistic option. He’s a strong leader on the pitch and in the dressing room. A very Moyes type professional.

How much? Leverkusen have said he’s not for sale, but they said the same of Schurrle. A bid of £20-23m would surely make them re-think that stance.