With Dani Alves, unequivocally rejecting a contract extension at Barcelona, the prospect of his move to another top European club has become a reality. However, with PSG declining any interest, Alves’ transfer trajectory has slowly gravitated toward Old Trafford.
The current PSG boss stated,
Dani Alves will not come to PSG, I do not think so anyway. He is out of contract but his intention is to extend with Barca. It is a game he is playing with his club, he’s awaiting their proposal. It’s nice for the press to have something to talk about, but there has been no contact that I know of.
With their evident problems at right back, United would relish the chance to sign a defender with world class credentials, to add some much needed experience to a shaky back four. However, given the average age of their most recent signings, in addition to the promotion of youth players, Alves’ age might play a role.
United will acquire his services for free, if his wage demands are met. With what’s reported to be around A?15ok a week for a 32 year old, is something that will remain a stumbling block for United. However with their return to European football, they would require world-class fullbacks, with Alves proving to be just what they need.
Though his age will leave doubt, Alves’ form this season has been nothing short of a renaissance. His consistency has been vital to Barcelona’s purple patch since the turn of the year. . His performance against Bayern Munich in the first leg at the Camp Nou, was nothing short of a masterclass.
The premier league will however be a stern test of his defensive capabilities, which haven’t always been Alves’ biggest strength. However the experience he will bring to younger squad full-backs, such as McNair and Rafael, as well as being a far better option than Valencia, will make him a difficult offer to turn down.