Is Seamus Coleman about to become the most expensive Irish footballer of all time?
The Donegal native has once again been linked with a big-money move to Manchester United today, with The Guardian suggesting that Louis van Gaal is prepared to part with £20 million to secure the signature of the flying right-back.
Despite a quieter campaign this season than last, Coleman has repeatedly been linked with a move away from Goodison Park, with United’s name regularly cropping up in the conversation.
From United’s point of view, Louis van Gaal apparently wants to sign a top quality right-back because of his doubts over Rafael Da Silva, the only established player in that position in the current squad. Furthermore, with his ability going forward, Coleman would appear ideally suited to the right wing-back role currently being filled by Antonio Valencia in Van Gaal’s 3-5-2 formation.
Recognised as probably the outstanding right-back in the league, the 26-year old would cost the Red Devils approximately £20 million, but they have shown in recent times that they are not afraid to spend big, having splashed out on the likes of Angel di Maria, Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera in the summer.
The Guardian report that Manchester United would be more confident of landing Coleman in the summer as opposed to during the January transfer window, especially considering Everton’s struggles so far this season and Coleman’s importance to Roberto Martinez’s side.
With the January transfer window just around the corner, the latest Coleman to United rumours may well be simply a product of the silly season, but even if it doesn’t come to pass, it is an indication of the regard in which Coleman is held at the highest level.
It won’t make for pleasant reading for Irish-based Everton fans, mind.
