Man Utd urged to cut ties with six players as pundit points out ‘toxic’ trait
Man Utd have been urged to sell up to six players in 2022 as they aim to end their long wait for a Premier League title.
The Red Devils last won the trophy in 2012-13, during Sir Alex Ferguson’s final year at Old Trafford. A number of managers have been and gone, but Man Utd have been unable to replicate his success.
Ralf Rangnick is now at the helm, following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in November. The German’s job is to stabilise the club before a long-term successor is appointed in the summer.
He could oversee a number of departures this winter, including that of Anthony Martial, Jesse Lingard and Dean Henderson.
Former Man City star Nigel de Jong reckons a major clear-out is needed if Man Utd are to get back to title-winning ways.
“I’ve been watching United closely now for the last three years, and it’s nothing to do with the manager,” he said (via Metro). “Louis van Gaal couldn’t do it, Jose Mourinho couldn’t do it, the problem is down to the recruitment of players.
“Recruitment of players is second to none when it comes down to shaping a team and its DNA. If you give too much power to certain players, it’s going to be toxic for your whole squad.
“United have got to get rid of at least five or six players in that team. Someone needs to come in and say ‘listen, you’ve had a good spell, you’ve picked up some good money, but you’ve got to go’.
“They need to get rid of that layer of players who decide everything within the club. The man in charge of the team is irrelevant until they deal with that issue.
“Too many players are trying to take over things.”
Man Utd learn deadline for striker target
Meanwhile, United have learnt the deadline for completing Erling Haaland’s move from Borussia Dortmund.
The Norwegian goalscorer is seen as Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential successor up front. His ridiculous output – 19 goals in 16 games this term – makes him an ideal signing.
United will have to fend off Man City, Real Madrid and Bayern to capture Haaland. And the interested clubs have now discovered when his future will be sorted.
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German outlet Bild claim Dortmund want to reach a conclusion by late February. They are kicking things off by engaging in contract talks with Haaland and his entourage.
Dortmund are aiming to keep the 21-year-old in Germany by doubling his wages to £260,000 a week. This will see him earn over £13m each year.
However, if they are unable to finalise terms, then the likes of United and City will be able to swoop in. But a transfer will have to be sorted way before the summer window opens.
READ MORE: Manchester United man blasted and told he is a ‘problem’ for Rangnick
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