Manchester United Targets: The Red Devils Focus on Nasri or Sneijder

Sir Alex Ferguson continues his hunt for the team that will challenge Barcelona for European supremacy, thus far focusing on the quick and the young.

The raw but loaded with upside potential David de Gea was a shrewd choice for goalkeeper, as was the addition of the relentless and quick winger Ashley Young. But to compete at the highest level, Ferguson needs a creative playmaker who can pick apart the defenses of Europe’s top teams.

Alexis Sanchez was in his sights but the Chilean has made it clear the Camp Nou is the only place he’s interested in calling a new home. Another target, Tottenham’s Luka Modric, isn’t moving, according to boss Harry Redknapp, but if money changes his mind, Modric looks set for a move to Chelsea.

For Ferguson, that leaves two targets: Arsenal’s quick and talented playmaker, Sami Nasri, and Inter Milan’s creative star, Wesley Sneijder.

Rumors are circulating about the 23-year-old Nasri and whether Arsenal’s manager, Arsène Wenger, would be willing to sell him if Fábregas makes a move back to Barcelona. And according to The Telegraph, Samir Nasri is "set to demand a move to Manchester United when he meets Arsene Wenger."

Nasri is valued at around £25m by Arsenal, and while Wegner is arguably the most fiscally responsible Premier League manager, it’s unlikely he’s looking to help out a league rival.

The 26-year-old Sneijder is a more likely option for Manchester as Inter Milan looks to rebuild an aging team. The Dutchman will bring creativity higher up the field, something ManU badly needs. Last year Sneijder led the Italian league with completed passes in the final third of the field with 626.

Ferguson has let it be known that he’s a long-time admirer and Sneijder has said he wants the move. Everything seems to be lined up, including a record setting transfer fee for Manchester United.

The modern El Clasico is now between Barcelona and Manchester United and as Ferguson works to create a team that will challenge for European supremacy, football fans around the world can rejoice as strength and pace receive a much needed injection of midfield creativity.