Manchester United confirmed the signing of Memphis Depay earlier in the week. The deal, estimated at around £22 million, is set to be the first of many incoming transfers at United over the course of the summer.
The Dutchman’s arrival will definitely excite United fans and Premier League fans alike. His goal to game ratio alone is impressive, but Depay’s sheer skill and technique will make him one of the Premier League’s most exciting players. However, his arrival could spell an end to certain players’ time at United.
Nani has been on loan at Sporting Lisbon all season and has hinted that he may return to United, after the Portuguese winger’s impressive displays. The United man has bagged 10 goals in 32 appearances for the club so far.
Louis van Gaal loaned out Nani for not being able to assure him first team football, and with Depay’s arrival, surely he’ll fall even further down the pecking order. Many would agree that the Portuguese International’s time at United is already up, but there may be a few reasons why the star will stay.
Nani’s contract at United does not expire until 2018, and his wages are potentially too high for another club to be interested. It must be said though, on his day the 28-year-old is one of the best around. The problem with Nani has always been consistency.
United now have a whole host of wingers; Angel Di Maria, Ashley Young, Adnan Januzaj and of course Memphis Depay. Juan Mata has also been used as a winger for United this season. So it really is difficult to see where Nani could fit in.
Nani has recently spoken about his time at Sporting Lisbon, and had this to say.
“The fans asked me to stay but we all know it’s hard. I have a contract with Manchester United and my ambitions are different this time.”
“I am very happy to have spent a year at Sporting. It was a great time, helping Sporting where I could and finish in the top three. The rest we’ll see.”
Only time will tell whether Nani’s future is at United. However, one thing is for sure, United have some brilliant options on the wings.