“Darren Fletcher vs Everton (cropped)” by Gordon Flood. Licensed under CC BY 2.0.
It goes without saying that Manchester United’s winter moves were not exciting. Anderson and Fletcher departures, or Valdés’ arrival being the biggest news. That said, getting Anderson off the books is great, and if Fletcher isn’t going to return to his former level, then that’s a good move too.
I go into more depth below, but the big reason why this was a good window is United is 3rd in the table and didn’t need to waste money. There’s no legitimate shot at the title this year. Maybe next year!
How can this be anything but good?
Well, if it turns out this is a long-term replacement for De Gea, that’s how. It’s hard to see how losing De Gea under just about any circumstance is good. Sure, a straight swap for Ronaldo or Messi would work. Is Bale really worth it with the current attacking force? It is true that there is not a true left-sided attacker other than Ashley Young, but then how much is it going to cost to replace De Gea?
Salford City is the club owned by several members of the Class of ‘92. There’s really nothing more to say about this.
Michael Keane & Marnick Vermijl
It’s always sad to see academy products not come through, but aside from that, as long as the fees were decent, there’s not much to be concerned about here.
I certainly would have preferred him not going to an EPL side. West Brom is not a threat by themselves, but we do have to play them on May 2. Fletcher could end up costing us a top 4 spot if we drop points in that game. It is at Old Trafford.
Some money would have been nice too, particularly considering the destination.
Anderson’s departure has been on the cards for some time. He never really recovered from his injuries – or he kept telling himself that and never got back to fitness. Regardless, it’s promise unfulfilled, but I doubt anyone is really sad to see him go.
The only thing I can see is that United wanted Janko out on loan and Bolton needed to get someone off their books to make it happen. If that’s the case, hard to argue with this.
Ben Pearson & Will Keane & Jesse Lingard & Saidy Janko & Joe Rothwell
Lingard is the biggest name here, and you have to think his time is running out.
Valdes coming in allows both of these guys to go out on loan.
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