Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes Burnley defender Michael Keane could return to Old Trafford just like Paul Pogba did last summer, he told BBC Radio 5 Live.
What’s the word?
Sold by Louis Van Gaal two-years ago, following an initial loan spell with Burnley, young defender Michael Keane has established himself as one of the finest young defenders within the Premier League and has been backed to complete a big-money signing this summer.
The 24-year-old has seen his name mentioned with a number of top-sides, including Manchester United, with Rio Ferdinand believing Keane would be a big success at Old Trafford if he was to return to the club- in a situation that would emulate Paul Pogba.
Pogba, bought back to United for a world-record fee from Juventus last summer, previously left during Sir Alex Ferguson’s tenure due to a lack of first-team opportunities but has excelled upon his return, proving to be a big player for Jose Mourinho’s side.
What was said?
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Ferdinand praised Keane for his rise over the past few years and believes he’d significantly bolster Manchester United’s defence:
“He likes to ask questions, he likes constructive criticism and that’s a great attribute to have, to be there, to look at your game in detail and try and improve. He’s always wanting to improve, whether it’s nutrition, whether it’s physical, whether it’s actual working on your game after training. He was always wanting to learn and understand more.”
“I think the moment he found out he was going to leave Manchester United – every kid’s dream in that area is to play for Manchester United – so to leave the club was a huge wrench for him. But it allowed him to go and spread his wings and bloom really and become the player he is now. At Manchester United he wasn’t afforded that opportunity, for whatever reason.”
“You look at the likes of Pogba; he’s gone away and come back now and become a huge star. Michael Keane, he could do that himself.”
Would he shine back at United?
For all of Manchester United’s attacking strength, their back-line has looked particularly vulnerable at stages this season and Jose Mourinho will look to improve his ranks this summer. If Keane was to arrive, he and Eric Bailly could form a formidable partnership for years to come.
United would face competition in the race for Keane’s signature but the defender’s previous history with the club would hand them a boost, as they are his boyhood club, although Keane told The Guardian this week he doesn’t regret leaving.
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