2. Mohammed Salisu
Nationality: Ghanaian
Height: 1.91m
Age: 20
Games played in 19/20: 28
Goals scored in 19/20: 1
Another La Liga player. Mohammed Salisu’s talents were spotted by Real Valladolid whilst he was playing for African Talent Football Academy in 2017.
The powerful and pacy left footed centre back if definitely of the same ilk as Kalidou Koulibaly. Salisu is extremely composed on the ball and has pace to burn which makes gives him a huge advantage.
Salisu is commanding in the air and he has a knack for getting a toe or a foot in ahead of his opponents. He can put his body on the line too and has often made some great blocks during this season for Real Valladolid.
His contributions have been vital in the current campaign with the Spanish side embroiled in a relegation fight.
After impressing in Valladolid’s youth set-up for the last few season, Salisu was promoted to the first team during the beginning of the campaign and he has been ever-present in the side so far this season.
Due to his similarity to Koulibaly and his relatively unknown status in world football, as well as Valladolid’s financial struggles, United could certainly sign Mohammed Salisu on the cheap in the summer.
At just 20 years of age, he has the potential and all the traits to become an exceptional defender. However, at the same time, due to his age, there are still aspects of his game which Salisu needs to polish and he does have the odd mistake in him.
He could learn his skills from Harry Maguire, however he might not be the best choice to partner him on a regular basis. Salisu should only be considered as a squad player at Manchester United for the time being.
He could be an ideal replacement for someone like Phil Jones for example.