Three ideal Premier League destinations for Man United’s Antonio Valencia
According to reports in the Sun, Antonio Valencia is close to leaving Manchester United for free once his contract expires at the end of the season. The Ecuadorian star can sign a pre-contract with non-English clubs in March.
The right-back’s deal does run out at the end of this season, however, United can extend his stay by another 12 months if they choose to. The board needs to offer him a deal before mid-season or could see the player sign a pre-agreement with another club in March. (Sun)
Valencia has had a few issues with Jose Mourinho but he would be happy to stay at Old Trafford if a chance is offered, claims the Sun. If the £80k-a-week star decides to choose a new club, here are the three ideal Premier League destinations for him:
Crystal Palace
Valencia is a veteran now at 33 and joining a top-six club isn’t a good option. Hence, Crystal Palace could be an ideal option. The Eagles have Aaron Wan-Bissaka as their first-choice right-back but possess no considerable quality to back him up.
The Manchester United full-back can prove to be a brilliant choice. Manager Roy Hodgson would be able to get the best out of a player who is richly talented and experienced.
Fulham
The Cottagers have struggled for consistency at the back, as a result, they are conceding goals for fun. One of their right-backs is United loanee Timothy Fosu-Mensah, who hasn’t been able to make much of an impact.
Fulham’s other viable option is Cyrus Christie, another player who has found it difficult to adjust to the pace of the Premier League. Hence, getting Valencia would be ideal for Slavisa Jokanovic and his men in the near future.
Everton
Seamus Coleman’s injury record in the past couple of seasons has been horrendous. He has been unlucky in that aspect, to be honest. Therefore, Marco Silva’s Everton are short in the right-back department, with the young Jonjoe Kenny doing the job now.
Buying an experienced player like Valencia would improve the defence and also add an extra option to the team in wide attacking areas.
The Ecuadorian could well be a perfect versatile addition to the Everton squad who are in a rebuilding phase at the moment.