Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing 18-year-old Argentine defender Aaron Anselmino from Boca Juniors.
A report from Defensa Central has claimed that Real Madrid are prepared to pay €20 million to sign Aaron Anselmino. The highly-rated Argentine central defender is also a target for Manchester United.
The 18-year-old is regarded as one of the finest young defensive prospects in South America, and he could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for Real Madrid and Manchester United. Both teams need to bring in a quality central defender for the long term, and it is hardly surprising that they are vying for his signature.
Signing Anselmino for €20 million could prove to be a superb investment, and the 18-year-old certainly has the ability to justify the investment in the long term. Manchester United need to bring in a quality central defender as well, and it will be interesting to see if they can compete with Real Madrid for his signature.
The Red Devils have had a disappointing season so far, and they might miss out on Champions League qualification. Competing with Real Madrid could be difficult when it comes to attracting quality young players. South American players tend to prefer a move to Spain as it is, and the opportunity to join Real Madrid could prove to be hard to turn down.
Manchester United should look to sign Aaron Anselmino
Manchester United have looked quite vulnerable at the back of this season, and they will need to bring in quality additions during the summer transfer window. Players like Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans have been linked with moves away from the club, and it remains to be seen whether the Red Devils decide to sanction their departure in the summer.
Anselmino would be a quality long-term investment for them. But the 18-year-old might need some time to adapt to English football. He is quite young and might not be able to make an immediate impact in the Premier League. Regardless, the young defender will be tempted to join the biggest clubs in the world, and both Real Madrid and Manchester United will be exciting destinations for him.
Real Madrid are probably better-placed to sign the Argentine sensation given their pull and financial resources. In addition, they will be able to offer him Champions League football next season and that could be a defining factor.
The 18-year-old needs to focus on his development, and he must join a club where he will get ample opportunities. If Real Madrid cannot provide him with the necessary game-time assurances, he should look to join another club in the summer.