Following the cruel injury sustained by Leny Yoro, Manchester United are in the market for defensive support, with a veteran Spanish free agent a potential solution.
Mario Hermoso has enjoyed a stellar five-season period with Atletico Madrid, lifting the La Liga title following a memorable 2020-21 campaign.
The Spaniard left the club following a prolonged contractual dispute regarding salary.
It ended a glittering time in Madrid, having made 45 appearances last season and 174 in total.
According to Maximo de la Cruz Ramirez Ramirez, United have made initial contact for his services, with the player requesting a three-year deal on a €6 Million gross annual salary.
A player with a notable pedigree
Diego Simeone has ruled the roost at Colchoneros since 2011, reinventing his style of play in the second half of the 2022-23 campaign.
Regarded as a notable leader for his defensive insistence, a shift towards a more dynamic attacking approach ensued – with Hermoso central to the side’s build-up play.
His ball distribution is immaculate, ranking in the top six percentile across Europe for progressive passes last season (6.03 per outing).
Furthermore, his willingness to break the opposition press is well noted, finishing in the top ten percentile for progressive carries and successful take-on.
Additionally, he is amongst the elite on the continent for his ability to receive progressive passes, averaging 2.03 per 90 minutes (second percentile).
Given Erik ten Hag’s desire to build play from the back, the defender embodies the role.
The 29-year-old has represented the Spanish national side on five occasions, transferring his impressive club form to the international stage.
Defensively, he is a shrewd operator, although he was the ‘playmaker‘ of a back three for much of the campaign.
His positional awareness is well regarded, contributing 3.15 clearances per 90′ played.
Furthermore, 1.41 tackles and aerial battles won highlight his physicality and 6 feet 1 frame. A lower tally of 0.96 interceptions and blocks is a result of his ball-playing role.
Acquiring a player with this experience, talent and ability would present a positive acquisition and benefit the battle against Profit and Sustainability.
Mario Hermoso offers a starting option and a genuine asset towards Ten Hag’s systematic style of play.
How do you feel about the prospect of the Madrid man joining Manchester United on a free transfer?
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