Morgan Rodgers has emerged as Manchester United’s ‘dream signing’ ahead of the January transfer window. The 23-year-old has been in scintillating form and it was on display in Aston Villa’s 2-1 win over United at Villa Park last Sunday afternoon. The England international scored both goals for Villa. First it’s a nice long distance curler, then it’s followed by a similar finish from closer distances.
The win extended Villa’s impressive winning streak to 10 games in the lead-up to a title challenge, but Bruno Fernandes’ absence with an injury revealed to Red Devils manager Ruben Amorim exactly what the squad is missing. This is the view of former United striker Luis Saha, who believes the club should make a bold move to sign Rodgers.
Saha told FootItalia: “I think we need a replacement in January who can stimulate the creativity of our midfield. In addition to Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount, we need creative speed there. I think it was good to sign Conor Gallagher. He has legs and power and I would love to see Morgan Rodgers at United.”
“He certainly has this power, but he reminds me a bit of Joelinton. He has that much power, but is also very technical and can push forward. It’s very important to have that kind of presence in midfield. I see Rodgers as being able to really bomb forward, but also being able to get pressed and hold the ball and give other players time to move into other positions. He’s the type of player United need.”
“It’s a very interesting profile in the sense that a lot of the players are very athletic. But in terms of making the right choice with that athleticism, it’s not easy. So I can see Rodgers being a dream signing.”
Significantly, Rodgers has past links with United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, dating back to his time at Manchester City. Wilcox was heading City’s academy when City splashed out £4.3 million to sign the then-16-year-old Rodgers from West Bromwich Albion in 2019, meaning the attacker already knows key figures within United’s structure.
Several of City’s academy graduates have gone on to play in the Premier League, with Cole Palmer being a prime example. United will certainly jump at the chance to capitalize on their rivals’ misjudgment, but clubs chasing Rodgers will find Villa are not prepared to let him go cheaply.
After the win over United, manager Unai Emery said: “Morgan Rodgers has been performing well, although he hasn’t had the numbers (goals) at the start of the season, he’s been playing well.” “He always did his job and always played every game with dedication.
“Today he did the same thing and of course scored the goal. He’s the hero. He’s a fighter, so I’m very, very happy. He’s a good guy, a very good guy. His commitment at Aston Villa is huge and his attitude every day is really great. And when you have numbers like today, of course we’re all very proud of everyone, but today especially with him.”
