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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…
Speaking to The Daily Mail, Douglas Costa’s agent has confirmed Manchester United’s attempts to sign Juventus star Douglas Costa this summer were rebuffed.
What’s the word?
The Brazil international was linked with a move to Old Trafford amid speculation linking Romelu Lukaku with a transfer to Turin.
Reports had suggested Costa could be used as part of the deal to lure the striker to Italy, but a move failed to materialise and Lukaku ended up joining Inter. Now, the Brazilian’s agent, Giovanni Branchini, has confirmed the Red Devils made a concerted effort to bring the winger to Old Trafford, but were met with stiff resistance from the Juventus management.
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He said: “I sincerely say that Allegri and Sarri have never thought of letting him go. The interest of Manchester United was strong, a club that has always been interested in the Brazilian. It was not the only club but in England it was certainly the most active team on the trail of Douglas Costa.
“Douglas has had countless health problems. Last season he was very often injured. He is wanting to recover with great professionalism after standing still. Juventus never intended to sell him despite the big pressure from United.
“He loves Juventus but is able to adapt to every reality. Premier League is a beautiful championship but for now United have failed in all their attempts to convince Juventus to sell him. The player remained in Turin and is a champion.”
A sprinkle of stardust
Make no mistake, Costa would have added some real dynamism to United’s attack. Aside from the 4-0 crushing of Chelsea in their opening game of the Premier League season, the Red Devils have looked relatively toothless going forward. In their last outing against Southampton, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side laboured to a 1-1 draw and essentially resorted to just chucking balls into the box.
Having Costa in their ranks would have given them an explosive winger with a sense of trickery and directness that is a step above Daniel James, for all the youngster’s qualities.
In just his two Serie A appearances this season, the 28-year-old has picked up two assists, and has averaged an impressive 2 shots, 2.5 key passes and 2.5 dribbles per game. The Brazilian can change the tempo of the game with his searing pace, and United already look like they’re missing someone who can do exactly that.
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