Mikael Silvestre Discusses the latest Manchester United Transfer Window Rumours

Next up for Manchester United is a huge early season clash against rivals Arsenal. Both have made stuttering starts to their season and will be looking to set the tone for their season this Sunday with a performance and win.

We caught up with one of the few players to represent both clubs, Mikael Silvestre. He shared his thoughts on some of the latest transfer rumours surrounding United as the window draws to a close.

In this article:

• Højlund closes in on Manchester United debut
• Højlund has already proven himself in Serie A
• Cucurella would be third choice if he joined Manchester United
• Gravenberch deal would be like signing Sabitzer
• Gamble Responsibly

Højlund closes in on Manchester United debut

Rasmus Højlund is close to making his competitive debut for Man Utd. The Danish forward was purchased for a stunning £72m fee but has yet to start for the club due to an injury he has been carrying.

With United’s difficulties in scoring goals and the injuries picked up by Antony Martial over recent seasons, Silvestre believes there will be an expectation on Højlund to hit the ground running when he eventually makes his debut.

“Højlund needs to be a good, fast learner because the team will be counting on him to deliver and score goals.”

“He’s a big lad, so opportunities at set pieces, he will have to impose his presence and get used to his teammates as soon as possible.”

“They will have to connect and understand how he wants to be served when creating chances.’

Højlund has already proven himself in Serie A

Before the signing of Højlund, United had been linked with several forwards, including Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and Napoli’s Victor Osihmen. When questioned whether United would have been better signing a more established striker, Silvestre argued that Højlund’s stint in Serie A showed him enough to believe the Danish forward will be a success at Old Trafford.

“I think United tried to get Harry Kane, but that wasn’t possible, so if Højlund delivers and has a good start, it could be an early payback considering his fee.”

“I believe he will do well because his qualities match the manager’s desires, and in a short space of time, he’s shown a good adaptation with Atalanta in Serie A. It’s a tough league as there isn’t a lot of space for strikers, and he created a lot of chances.”

Cucurella would be third choice if he joined Manchester United

The Red Devils are looking to bring in a left-back, with Marc Cucurella being an option to come in on a loan spell. They have also been linked with the likes of Rico Henry of Brentford and Tottenham’s Sergio Reguilon.

Cucurella has struggled since his move from Brighton last summer to Chelsea. The left-back had previously shone under Graham Potter and had garnered a reputation as one of the best full-backs in the league. Whilst Silvestre is impressed with the Spaniard’s attacking qualities, he doesn’t believe in Cucurella’s defensive abilities.

“I’m not sure about Cucurella. Offensively, he has shown a lot of qualities, but defensively, he’s not great, and United need that platform at the back, so he wouldn’t be my number one pick.”

“Anyone that comes in would be a number three choice.”

Gravenberch deal would be like signing Sabitzer

United have also been linked with several midfielders. That has only heightened since the injury to Mason Mount last week against Tottenham. Ryan Gravenberch, who played under ten Hag at Ajax, is the latest name to have been rumoured to be moving to United. The midfielder has struggled for playing time whilst at the Bavarian outfit and is determined to play more this season. However, Silvestre sees similarities between Gravenberch coming in and the loan of Marcel Sabitzer last season.

“He’s a good player, but I can’t see what he would bring to the midfield. Sabizer came last season and did okay but couldn’t impose himself, and I can see Gravenberch doing the same.”

“United have to go for players that will improve the squad if they want to close the gap on the title contenders.”

“Other than the left back position, I don’t expect any movement for United. They still have the likes of Donny van De Beek as backup up, and the manager doesn’t want to increase the size of the squad.”

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