Manchester United have rejected approaches from Newcastle United and Inter Milan for midfielder Michael Carrick.
Carrick – who turns 34 on Tuesday – has been one of United’s most consistent performers in recent seasons but after the acquisitions of Schweinsteiger, Schneiderlin, Herrera and Fellaini in recent times, it has been suggested that his minutes will be limited moving forward.
And so the Italian giants and his home town club have both reportedly made advances to sign the midfielder, according to the People.
However, United have dismissed them.
From The Mirror:
BY STEVE BATES
Manchester United have knocked back moves by Inter Milan and Newcastle to land midfield king-pin Michael Carrick, writes Steve Bates in the Sunday People.
I understand Inter boss Roberto Mancini and new Toon chief Steve McClaren have both tried to land 33-year-old England star Carrick this summer.
But on both occasions United’s transfer supremo Ed Woodward rejected their approach after consulting United boss Louis van Gaal.
Carrick signed a one-year contract extension in March and despite his age is seen as having a vital role for United this season even after the arrival of high-profile midfield stars Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin.
Van Gaal believes Carrick’s calm authority and ability to dictate United’s tempo from midfield will be a key component for his side this season.
The Dutchman’s stance is a big blow to McClaren who was hoping to build Newcastle’s midfield around Geordie Carrick for the coming season.
McClaren was optimistic about landing Carrick especially after seeing van Gaal strengthen United’s midfield.
Competition for places is now fierce at Old Trafford with Carrick, Schweinsteiger, Schneiderlin, Ander Herrera, Daley Blind, Marouane Fellaini, Andreas Pereira and Jessie Lingard all vying for a central midfield spot.
Former Manchester City boss Mancini is a big Carrick fan after his time in the Premier League and recognises his passing quality and ability to defend and start attacks.
He was keen to land the experienced star but van Gaal isn’t willing to off-load Carrick who joined United from Tottenham for £18.6 million in 2006 and is due a testimonial at the end of next season.
By then Carrick would be 34 and United would be more receptive to allowing him to leave after helping the club through more transition this season.
Carrick put in a star turn for United against Barcelona yesterday to remind everyone of his qualities.
