Why this £21m-rated defender should choose Man United over Arsenal and Chelsea

Kostas Manolas is a name on several Premier League clubs’ lips ahead of the forthcoming January transfer window, including the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea, according to the Metro.

The 25-year-old, who has 27 international caps for his native Greece, has already made 16 appearances in all competitions for Serie A side AS Roma so far this season.

Photo: Offside / IPP.

Manolas, who has also featured for the likes of AEK Athens and Olympiacos, is understood to be attracting the top-flight giants ahead of the new year period given the Italian club have failed to agree terms on a contract extension for the centre-half.

It is understood that the player, who is valued at around £21.25m (via Transfermarkt), wants a pay rise at the Stadio Olimpico.

So, with the Greek star on the radar of United, Arsenal and Chelsea, Shoot! takes a look at why the Roma ace should opt for Old Trafford in January.

Here are our reasons…

Instant first-team Red Devil

Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.

It is fair to say fellow defenders Chris Smalling (Pictured) and Luke Shaw are not in Jose Mourinho’s ‘good books’.

The ‘Special One’ criticised the pair after their absence in United’s 3-1 victory over Swansea City earlier this month, meaning centre-half Smalling’s Red Devils future has been plunged into doubt.

Step forward Manolas! The Greek star seems to be Mourinho’s number one transfer target, in regards to recent speculation, which would almost guarantee the AS Roma ace a first-team spot in United’s starting XI beyond January.

Granted; Eric Bailly has been impressive at centre-half, but Manolas could form a formidable partnership with the Ivorian, with the solid Daley Blind able to operate in several defensive positions, if required.

Phenomenal pay rise

Photo: Simon Stacpoole / Offside.

After spending a world record £89m to bring former midfielder Paul Pogba back to Old Trafford during the summer, it is fair to say the Premier League giants are in no way short of money.

With Pogba, Wayne Rooney, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and David De Gea reportedly all earning over £200,000-a-week at The Theatre of Dreams, the Red Devils would undoubtedly be ready to offer a guaranteed increase on his current wages at Roma, where he is understood to be earning less than £40,000-a-week.

Easy money!

England’s most successful football club

Photo: Marc Atkins / Offside.

Prestigious. Historical. Champions. These are just some of the words used to describe Manchester United Football Club.

Despite Jose Mourinho’s men currently sitting sixth in the Premier League standings after their opening 11 league games, the Red Devils are enriched with silverware and success.

With 20 First Division/Premier League titles, 12 FA Cups, four League Cups and three European Cup/Champions League crowns to their name; United are officially the most successful football club in English history.

Playing for the Red Devils is simply an honour.

Plus, fans will be hoping Mourinho can bring back the ‘good times’ after leading them to the FA Community Shield earlier this campaign. Hopefully that was just a taster for United supporters!

Manolas’ arrival could be another step forward for United.