Manchester United plot swoop for Fenerbahce ace who is starring for Turkey at Euro 2024
According to a report from Turkish Football, Manchester United have registered an interest in Fenerbahce left-back Ferdi Kadioglu.
Ferdi Kadioglu, 24, has become one of Fenerbahce’s best players in recent years. He enjoyed a fantastic 2023/24 season, contributing towards eight goals in 51 matches as Fenerbahce finished second in the Super Lig.
The left-back is currently starring for starring for Turkiye at the ongoing European Championships in Germany. Ferdi Kadioglu has featured in all three group games for his nation, helping them qualify for the knockout rounds of the competition. Turkish Football reports Manchester United scouts were present during Turkiye’s crucial encounter against Czechia, running the rule over the 24-year-old. Kadioglu played the full 90 minutes as Turkiye defeated Czechia 2-1 to advance to the round of 16.
However, Manchester United aren’t the only club keeping close tabs on the Fenerbahce star. The report adds Arsenal scouts were also present in that game, while Borussia Dortmund have been interested for quite some time and are ready to present an offer for him. Kadioglu is valued at around €30m by the Yellow Canaries, but that could easily rise after his performances at 2024 Euro.
Man United eyeing a new left-back
The Red Devils’ interest in Kadioglu could be viewed as an attempt to bolster the defence that leaked goals at an alarming rate this past season. Erik ten Hag, who is on the verge of securing a new contract from the club, is keen on bolstering his squad after Man United’s worst finish in the Premier League era. He wants to bring stability to his backline by supposedly bringing in a new left-back.
Read More: Manchester United make opening move to land Uruguayan star who was a monster at Sporting CP
Luke Shaw’s career at Old Trafford has been blighted by constant injury problems and the 2023/24 season was no different for him. A combination of muscle and hamstring injuries limited the England international to 12 Premier League appearances. Tyrell Malacia, Shaw’s deputy, failed to register a single minute after suffering a serious knee injury before pre-season, which forced Ten Hag to use the likes of Diogo Dalot, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Sofyan Amrabat and Victor Lindelof at left-back.
Thus, the signing of a new left-back is of paramount importance to the Red Devils. We could do a fine job by recruiting Ferdi Kadioglu as he has the profile that fits perfectly with INEOS’ recruitment model. The Turkiye international can also play in advanced areas on the left and right flank, and such versatility adds more value to his name.
At 24, the Fenerbahce man could be a smart long-term replacement for the injury-prone Shaw at Old Trafford. However, given Arsenal and Dortmund have also been linked with Kadioglu, Man United must intensify their efforts to get a deal done.
Read More: Manchester United submit £14m bid for South American wonderkid who is also on Chelsea’s radar