The unlikely hero who could be key to Man United’s season

Recent reports have suggested that centre-back Axel Tuanzebe could be set to return to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United squad for next season.

The in-form defender has recently shown his worth with Championship side Aston Villa over the last two seasons and this could be key to getting back into the famous red shirt at Old Trafford. The Villans have had a tremendous season under the leadership of Dean Smith who has implemented Tuanzebe in a way which could suit a potential role at United.

His ball playing abilities have been praised within recent weeks as he continues a good partnership with on-loan Bournemouth centre-back, Tyrone Mings. Despite, being injured for several months of the season, Tuanzebe has quickly become a fan favourite at Villa Park – a fan base who would very much like to keep hold of him.

The Red Devils look set to complete a squad overhaul in the Summer, which could lead to Tuanzebe being very much a part of Ole’s plans for the 2019/20 Premier League campaign. A rebuild, no doubt, will take several years to complete at Old Trafford – especially if they are to take a step closer towards rivals, Manchester City.

Embed from Getty Images

Manchester United’s youth academy has also received a lot of praise in recent years after the recent introduction of several products including Scott McTominay, Tahith Chong, Mason Greenwood and Angel Gomes. Still only 21, Tuanzebe has more than enough time to fulfil his potential since making his debut for the club in 2015.

Throughout the countdown to the summer transfer window, several defenders have been linked with United including the likes of Kalidou Koulibaly, and Matthijs De Ligt. But with this youth philosophy proving worthy, this, of course, would be a cheaper and potentially a better option for Solksjaer.

Featured image credit: Aston Villa FC