Nelson Semedo in action for Barcelona during a La Liga encounter. (Getty Images)
As per Catalan newspaper Sport (h/t The Express), Manchester United have contacted Barcelona defender Nelson Semedo over a possible summer transfer.
Semedo, 26, excelled for two years with Benfica’s senior squad before moving to Barcelona in the summer of 2017. Though he was a regular in his first two seasons at Camp Nou, he hasn’t enjoyed too many starts this season.
The Portuguese ace is yet to make the right-back position for himself and could be on the move in search of regular game time. Manchester United have shown interest in him.
The Red Devils have performed better of late, with everyone doing their best. Since the arrival of Bruno Fernandes in January, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men haven’t lost a game. They are unbeaten in their last 11 fixtures across all competitions.
In the process, they scored 29 goals and conceded just twice. The defensive unit has improved a lot since the turn of the New Year and have kept 8 clean sheets. Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof have struck a strong partnership in the heart of United’s defence. Eric Bailly’s return to the squad too has been a huge boost.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Luke Shaw have also risen to the occasion, with the former performing very well. The emergence of Brandon Williams through the ranks has also been vital this term.
United have plenty of defenders at their disposal, especially at right-back, with Bissaka claiming the spot for himself. Diogo Dalot too is available as cover. Timothy Fosu-Mensah is another player who can be an able backup in that position. Thus, with three youngsters available, making a move for Nelson Semedo would not be a wise move.
Though Semedo is one of the best players in that position, he may find it difficult to break into Solskjaer’s starting XI. The former Benfica man has featured in 21 games but has made limited starts and thus, United should keep their eyes away from him.
The Portuguese’s addition to the squad would bring confusion to the manager and that would not help, especially when the defensive unit is set. He may also be a waste of resources for the Red Devils as he could eventually end up on the bench.
With plenty of options at the back, signing a defender may not be helpful for United. Therefore, the manager should avoid the signing of Semedo and instead look to strengthen other key areas.
