Recently, quite a lot of buzz has been created about speculation that Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck is unhappy where he is. It’s rumoured that he wants to leave the club, which is currently mired in an abysmal season. Welbeck is currently one of five Red Devils competing for a job in the squad’s front three, along with Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez and Juan Mata. It would appear that Welbeck may be the odd man out here; I’m sure most United fans would rather have any of those four up front than him.
Unfortunately, Welbeck’s possible departure will be painful for United fans. He’s a born and bred Mancunian; one of many who have come up through United’s academy system. He’s become rather a fan favourite at Old Trafford. Indeed, it’s hard to imagine Welbeck ever wanting to leave his boyhood club. Yet, it’s likely that leaving for somewhere with less attacking depth is the only way he can progress his career, since it’s becoming clear that David Moyes doesn’t have much use for him. It really appears that the time has come for the club to part ways with Danny Welbeck.
In 32 appearances for United this year, Welbeck has scored 10 goals, which is nothing to scoff at. But, there’s still no question that most fans (myself included) would still prefer any of the other attackers the club has at its disposal. Selling him would probably allow United to keep Hernandez, who’s generally known as a better striker than Welbeck. It would also probably help make room for the club to sign a central midfielder – an area in which United are severely lacking.
Even with Robin van Persie injured, it seems impossible for Welbeck to get into the team. He’s hardly played since RVP went down in the first leg against Bayern Munich. His only appearances since then have been the second leg of the Champions League tie (in part because Juan Mata was cup-tied, and therefore was ineligible to participate), and in Sunday’s shockingly awful United performance at Everton.
If United do choose to transfer Welbeck, they likely won’t have to look far for a buyer. It’s been suggested by multiple sources that both Arsenal and Tottenham have expressed interest. For United fans, it would be very tragic to see Welbs playing for a Premier League rival, so United are also likely to test the waters with other European clubs who may want him. Welbeck still has two years left on his contract, however it’s likely he wouldn’t be offered a pay increase at the end of it. At another club, he probably will be able to make more money, if he’s in a situation where he makes more regular first team appearances. Of course, it’s doubtful that money is all he’s interested in, but it will be a factor, along with added play time, leading up to Welbeck’s (possibly imminent) transfer request.
Welbeck’s departure would definitely not come as a surprise to most United fans, although it will still be a sad moment. However, we all want what’s best for both Danny and United. It’s becoming increasingly clear that what’s best is for Welbeck to move on.
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