Manchester United have emerged as front-runners to rope in Southampton FC’s ace midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin . , according to media reports. The French international had an impressive 2014/15 season for The Saints in the Premier League. Several other top clubs have also shown interest in the midfielder for the coming season, which includes Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
Southampton have reportedly set a mammoth transfer fee of A?25million for their star midfielder and Manchester United are ready to match that sum.
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal will look forward to sign a quality defensive midfielder who can play a pivotal role in the central midfield zone. Michael Carrick, 33 has been the most influential midfielder in this season for the club. But the English veteran is old now and has become susceptible to injuries. Schneiderlin’s inclusion would give Van Gaal an added option for this season as well as a permanent replacement for Carrick in the long term.
In an interview, the French midfielder had mentioned that he is looking forward to playing in the Champions League. Schneiderlin was quoted: ‘Yes, I think my decision is made. I learned a lot last season. The goal is to stay in England. It is a championship that I like and where I have a lot of fun. If I leave Southampton, it is for a club that plays better than the Europa League.
‘There are ongoing discussions, but nothing is done. But of course, the Champions League is my goal. If I leave Southampton it will be for a club in the Champions League.
‘I have a two-year contract. If a club pays the right amount for me, it will be time to leave.
‘The amount? I have no idea, but I will not leave for a small price. Southampton is known to be a good seller club, the price should be high enough.’