Jesus Rodriguez: United identify perfect Rashford replacement

Manchester United’s lack of width has been apparent ever since Michael Carrick took over.

The caretaker head coach has reverted to a back four while playing with two wide forwards on either side of the central striker.

However, former head coach Ruben Amorim had sold all of the club’s wingers in favour of bringing in more attacking midfielders.

Both Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford are no longer at the club, with the Mancunian close to making his loan move to Barcelona permanent at the end of the season.

It is clear that if the Red Devils continue to play in a similar system, whether it be under Carrick or some other head coach , the club will need a quality left winger.

Amad has made the right wing spot his own, but Matheus Cunha is having to play out of position for the team’s sake.

With INEOS preferring Premier League-proven stars, Iliman Ndiaye and Anthony Gordon have been identified as potential options.

However, both Everton and Newcastle are likely to make it hard for the 20-time English league champions, hence the co-owners have been forced to cast their net far and wide.

Yan Diomande is another option, proving to be a revelation in the Bundesliga. His cost might prove prohibitive.

Spanish outlet AS have now added a whole new name into the mix — Jesus Rodriguez of Como. United were always aware of the Spaniard’s talent from his time at Real Betis , but the 20-year-old has taken his game to a whole new level since his switch to Serie A.

In 18 starts across all competitions, the Spain U21 international has registered three goals and eight assists, including seven in the league, which ranks him in joint second place.

“Among the names on Manchester United’s shortlist are several promising young players with potential in European football.

“They are keen on Jesús Rodríguez , who is having a great season at Como 1907.”

Jesus Rodriguez excels in take-ons, ranking in the 93rd percentile for successful dribbles as compared to his peers in Italy, while ranking in the 90th percentile for big chances created (via fotmob ).

The Seville-born star excels on the left, but can also do a job on the right as well as a No.10. Such versatility can be a major asset for United, provided they can close the deal.

Cesc Fabregas’ team had signed him for €22.5 million last summer, and he is expected to fetch at least double that should any team seriously consider bidding.

Feature image Marco Luzzani via Getty Images

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