Manchester United keeping close tabs on Switzerland youngster
Published:Scorer of Switzerland’s late consolation goal in their 5-2 hammering at the hands of France, Granit Xhaka could have plenty more to celebrate should he impress against Honduras.
The Rossocrociati go into their final group fixture against the Central American outfit knowing that victory will be enough to see them progress to the next round – provided France avoid defeat to qualification rivals Ecuador.
And one man who will be eager to impress is Xhaka, as he looks to take his career to the next level following two impressive seasons in the Bundesliga with Borussia Moenchengladbach.
Signed by the German club from Basle for an estimated €8.5m back in May 2012, the midfielder was on the radar of several Premier League teams before making the switch.
Speaking before the deal was completed Georg Heitz, the director of the Swiss club, even hinted at one potential English destination.
“I do not like naming names, I can only say there’s many clubs who follow him, not just Manchester United,” he said in a not-so-subtle comment at the time
But while Manchester United missed out on landing the Swiss star two years ago, an impressive showing at this World Cup could convince the Red Devils and new manager Louis van Gaal to part with some cold hard cash for the 21-year-old.
United are in the market for central midfield reinforcements and should moves for other players stall, then Xhaka could represent a realistic alternative.
Any move could depend on Switzerland progressing past the group phase though, with Ottmar Hitzfeld’s team going up against Honduras for the second consecutive World Cup.
Last time the Central American side ended the Swiss’ hopes of progress with a draw and the Europeans will be wary of a repeat.
His Premier League future could depend on it.
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