Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing right back Seamus Coleman from Everton. The news comes from Sky Sports, who claim that United are yet to make a bid for the Republic of Ireland star, but Louis van Gaal is keen on signing a player who has been one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League in recent years.
It is no secret that United are in for defenders this summer. With just one natural first team right back in the squad, Rafael, it is easy to see why Louis van Gaal deems it necessary to send scouts across Europe in an attempt to bolster the defence in preparation for next season.
The Red Devils played the majority of last season with Antonio Valencia occupying the right back spot. Although the Ecuadorian held his place ahead of Rafael fairly convincingly, he didn’t always look like the most natural full back. While his attacking displays raised eyebrows, defensively he lacked the consistency to be able to stamp his ground on the position permanently.
Here at ManUNews, we discussed earlier in the month 5 potential right back’s United could sign this summer. Here is what we had to say regarding Seamus Coleman:
“Although the Everton right back doesn’t glisten as one of the best signings United could make, the Irishman has undoubtedly been one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League for many years. At 26, Coleman is hitting his best years in football, and with him already proving himself in the Premier League, it is hard to see him slowing down even if he did make the move to United. Coleman is a solid full back who loves an invite to get forward and attack. He is also defensively sound, and a very reliable player in any sense. Everton’s unwillingness to sell the player may pose a potential stumbling block for the move, however only time will tell whether or not the Merseyside club will be tempted to part ways with the player if a serious bid at the right amount comes in.”
Coleman joined Everton for just £60,000 in 2009 and has gone on to make 185 appearances for the club, scoring 12 goals while also making 28 caps for the Republic of Ireland.