Edinson Cavani could be headed to Real Sociedad in the summer as he gets closer to ending his short stint at Manchester United.
According to The Sun, Edinson Cavani could be closing in on a move to Real Sociedad on a free transfer as his Manchester United chapter comes to a close. The Uruguayan has become a cult figure at Old Trafford, with his contributions highly appreciated by the supporters.
Edinson Cavani was brought in by Manchester United in the summer of 2020 to provide cover to some of the younger strikers at the club. Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and others benefitted from the veteran’s presence as the Red Devils seemed to have extracted full value of the Uruguayan’s talents in his debut season.
Cavani banged in 17 goals in all competitions during the 2020/21 campaign, prompting the club to extend his stay by another year. However, the forward has been plagued by fitness problems this term, which have kept him out of the side. Muscle and groin injuries have limited him to 17 appearances across all competitions, in which he has managed to chip in just two goals.
Whenever he has been available, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick have selected him to play mostly in a cameo role, as he continues to prove his usefulness in a star-studded squad. But the next few months could be his last in Manchester United colours, as a departure to Spain looms large.
The 35-year-old has indicated his desire to play in La Liga, where he came close to joining some clubs before signing for Manchester United. There have also been reports linking the striker to Boca Juniors, and it seems he may prefer to stay put in Europe for the time being.
Villarreal have been credited with an interest, although it seems Cavani may end up joining Real Sociedad instead in the summer. Considering the financial limitations of the Spanish side, the Uruguayan is likely to take a massive pay cut in the process, which may not be a problem, given he is coming to the end of his glittering career.
Real Sociedad are looking at bargain deals that may help the club continue their progress under Imanol Alguacil, and a player like Cavani fits the bill perfectly. Alternatively, the Manchester United forward could be a cost-effective option to replace Alexander Isak, who remains in high demand among top clubs around the continent.
Real Sociedad are reportedly close to capturing the 35-year-old on a free transfer and may finalise the move even before the season ends. It would be a good next step for Cavani, who would hope to have a good stint in La Liga and help a growing club like Sociedad in the short term.