adminLONDON. — Manchester United have taken the extraordinary step of inquiring about Nani’s interest in returning to Old Trafford in January – just 12 weeks after they allowed him to join Sporting on an expensive season-long loan.
The 27-year-old was permitted to return to Portugal in August as part of the complex deal United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward negotiated to sign Marcos Rojo. In addition to a £16 million transfer fee, Woodward granted Nani to Sporting without a loan fee and with United covering the vast majority of the winger’s salary.
At the time, Nani had grown frustrated with his diminished status at Old Trafford and was ruled out of United’s long-term plans. Such have been the club’s travails since then, however, he is now wanted back. One reason for United’s changed stance is Louis van Gaal’s decision to stand down the ill-considered 5-3-2 formation with which he began his managerial reign.
A switch to the 4-1-4-1 shape deployed against Chelsea and Manchester City has highlighted his squad’s shortcomings on the wing, with only Angel Di Maria performing well in the role. — Goal.com
Online Reporter