Pundit explains why Man United want to sign Chelsea star ahead of Fabinho
Shaka Hislop believes Jose Mourinho's past working relationship with Nemanja Matic explains why Man United want the Chelsea star
Shaka Hislop believes Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho would prefer to sign Nemanja Matic ahead of Fabinho this summer.
The Red Devils are thought to be in the market to sign a defensive midfielder in the summer transfer window to secure a long-term replacement for Michael Carrick.
The England international signed a one-year contract extension this summer but at the age of 35, Carrick could be entering into his final season at Old Trafford.
Monaco midfielder Fabinho was thought to be a top target for Manchester United as Mourinho looks to cement his options ahead of a return to the Champions League.
However, Chelsea star Matic has emerged as a surprise contender to bolster Manchester United’s midfield despite the rivalry between the two Premier League clubs.
The Serbia international played under Mourinho for two-and-a-half seasons and won the Premier League and League Cup double with the Portuguese coach.
Former Newcastle United and West Ham goalkeeper Hislop isn’t surprised to see Matic has moved ahead of Fabinho in Mourinho’s list of summer targets.
“Mourinho knows Matic. It’s that simple,” Hislop told ESPN FC.
Matic struggled to perform like the rest of his Chelsea team-mates in the 2015-16 season as Mourinho paid the price for the west London club’s dismal start to the defence of their Premier League crown.
Fabinho won the Ligue 1 title and reached the Champions League semi-finals with AS Monaco last term.
