Source: http://www.nkenu.com/2016/07/five-alternatives-to-pogba-that-would.html

Paul Pogba's €110 million transfer to Man. Utd. is all but complete, according to media reports. For some time now, there hasn't been a player with much transfer speculations as the French International. He has evolved to one of the best midfielders in the world within a very short time and at such a young age. At 23, he is seen as a future Balon d'or winner. His physical attributes stand shoulder to shoulder to that of ex French Midfield icon, Patrick Vieira, while his technicality sees him comparable to Zidane. His perfect mix of trickery and athleticism, gives him the tactical flexibility, to operate from any midfield role. It is not surprising to see the biggest soccer clubs vie for his signature, over the last two years.

However, his expected transfer to Manchester United has had its fair share of criticisms, not that he’s unnecessary or that his skills won’t be needed, but because of his exorbitant price tag that will see him become the most expensive football player – ever! He has the special qualities that any top team will kill for to have in their squad , but candidly, spending such a huge money on a midfielder that still has much to improve upon in his overall game play is questionable.

Pogba's excellence at Juventus prior to last season, was helped by having a tactically perfect Pirlo, and a fighter, Vidal, play along him. Last season, he had the chance to anchor the Juventus midfield solely and wasn't as fantastic as the previous years. At the Euros, West Ham star, Dimitri Payet and Antonie Griezmann were the standout players through the tournament for the French National Side. Pogba was expected to be the pivot for the Host team, but even with his nice displays, he was below par.

Manchester United's willingness to break the bank to get the star is understandable, giving their poor decision in letting him leave at a young age, due to limited playing time with the first team. Juventus took the risk in buying him from United, and will be reluctant to let him return, at a cheap. Notwithstanding, there are other players, United could sign, for lesser price, and with comparable abilities, to that of Pogba. These players have also proven over the years, their abilities to dominate and control the midfield the ease. These players include;


1. Koke (€60 million):

The 24 year old Athletico Madrid's midfielder has a unique skillset and unparalleled, methodological tenacity. His playmaking abilities is comparable to those of David Silva, and Cesc Fabregas, while his defensive skills, is similar to that of Sergio Busquett. He is well-rounded and has been a crucial part of Athletico Madrid's successes in the last five years.

2. Toni Kroos (€55 million):

Last season, the 26 year old German International, topped the charts for average passes per game (75. and lass completion rate (93.9) in the Spanish Laliga, with Real Madrid. He was a standout performer for Germany at the just concluded Euros, dictating the midfield with so much efficiency and mastery. He created more chances than Pogba at the Euros, and had a better pass completion rate of 94%, to Pogba's 85%. Against France in the Semis, he came Ontop Pogba in the midfield duel, even though France won the match.


3. Ivan Rakitic (€50 million):

For a player that has successfully replaced Xavi in the Barcelona's midfield, there is no doubting his ability to boss any team's midfield.

4. Marco Verrati (€40 million):

The 23 year old Italian prodigy is a blend of Pirlo, Xavi and Makelele. He is a proven Player Maker, given his influence over the years at PSG, with commendable consistency, and work rate, despite his small physique and stature. His passing abilities, stand him out from the other players listed.

5. Miralem Pjanic (€38 million):

The new Juventus signee, has been frequently compared to David Beckham, for his flair for the Spectacular and ability to bend the ball. His ball possession and driving activities has linked him to Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Manchester United in recent times, before he made the move this summer to Juventus from AS Roma.

Source + pics: http://www.nkenu.com/2016/07/five-alternatives-to-pogba-that-would.html

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