Manchester United have been struggling big time on the pitch of late, losing five games in December including three on the trot.
Ruben Amorim has now managed to win a mere seven points from a possible 21, with former manager Erik ten Hag accruing more points from his final seven games in charge.
The Red Devils have conceded 10 goals in the last four games with Matthijs de Ligt’s absence due to illness not helping matters.
With Lisandro Martinez’s struggles and Leny Yoro’s inexperience, It is clear that a commanding centre-back could be a huge boon in the winter, especially keeping in mind the team’s weakness from set-pieces.
Danilo emerged as a surprise option
Juventus’ Danilo had emerged as a surprise option with the former Real Madrid and Manchester City star “wanted” by Amorim due to his experience.
The 33-year-old has won two Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies and with the Turin-based outfit open to a cut-price exit, the 20-time English league champions were thinking of pouncing.
However, as reported by Tuttosport, United had tested the waters for the Brazilian but Juventus are mulling over a swap deal and hence, the operation failed.
Napoli have offered the Brazil international a two-year deal and he has accepted with Antonio Conte keen on the versatile centre-back, who is capable of playing on both flanks.
“The reason why the Brazilian now appears inclined to accept the courtship of De Laurentiis’ club is because a contract until 2026 is ready.
Danilo to Napoli
“With all due respect to the many foreign admirers Flamengo, Marseille and Manchester United, who in recent weeks have asked for information and tested the waters.
“Juve does not intend to give Danilo his registration, but aims to collect compensation or obtain something in exchange (for example the loan of Raspadori from Napoli). Danilo has chosen Napoli as the next stage of his career. Conte awaits him with open arms.”
It would have been a short-term deal, but United are better served looking for quality options elsewhere. United have not signed anyone below 27 since INEOS came onboard and there is no reason to change that stance for Danilo.
Amorim prefers intensity and the Juve star cannot provide that anymore. A left wingback and striker are of greater importance in January.
Feature image Wagner Meier via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
