Manchester United Transfer Rumours: Breaking Down Key Target Leighton Baines

Despite winning the Premier League title last season, Manchester United and new manager David Moyes have been active participants in the transfer window.

According to the Telegraph's Chris Bascombe, the Red Devils are interested in boosting their defense with the potential addition of veteran left back Leighton Baines, who has starred for Everton since 2007. United's initial bid of £10 million for Baines was shot down, but the club is reportedly coming back with an offer of £12 million, according to Bascombe.

But what would Moyes and the Red Devils be getting themselves into if they land Baines?

Let's take a closer look at the club's defensive target.

Essentially, the 28-year-old Baines is everything you look for in a topflight defender. Although he isn't physically imposing at just 5'7", he's experienced, creative, calm on the ball and incredibly reliable when it comes to winning it back.

He won't be fooled easily, and neither his durability or stamina can be questioned.

He appeared in all 38 of Everton's Premier League matches last season, becoming the only player in the league to play every minute of every match. 

In addition to starring at the back at Goodison Park last season, Baines also made his presence felt on the attack, recording five assists in league play last season. Only five Everton players scored more goals than Baines (seven) through all competitions last season, and only one player on the Toffees' squad managed to pile up more assists than the veteran (seven).

Baines' creativity was also on display this past season as he manufactured an impressive 116 chances for his teammates. He also found the back of the net on his own on occasion, scoring five goals in the Premier League.

But more importantly than what he brings as a creator, Baines is a disciplined defender who helps keep his team in the match regardless of talented the competition.

Despite winning the crown, United conceded 43 goals in 38 league matches a year ago, no doubt inspiring Moyes to pursue his former defender this summer.

Defensively, Baines was stellar in 2012-13, committing just 30 fouls and picking up a total of four yellow cards (zero red cards) in league play.

Moyes has experience coaching Baines at Everton and has witnessed firsthand what he's capable of. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that United is willing to pay a hefty price tag for the defensive star's services.

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