Manchester United Transfer Rumours: How Thiago Alcantara Would Help Red Devils

Manchester United has been linked to several players this summer, but none with more potential than Spanish midfielder Thiago Alcantara.

The 22-year-old has made over 100 appearances for Barcelona over the past five seasons and recently starred in the 2013 UEFA Under-21 European Championship for Spain, where he won Golden Player and Silver Boot honors.

Alcantara has a brilliant skill set and overall game that has made him a coveted piece for several clubs this offseason. For United, he offers a much-needed change of pace in midfield.

A phenomenal passer and decision-maker, Alcantara is excellent at picking defenses apart and opening up chances for teammates. With the always dangerous Robin van Persie making runs in and around the box, Alcantara could become a deadly setup man.

But in addition to creating chances for others, Alcantara is a lethal scorer himself. He scored a hat trick in Spain's 4-2 win over Italy in the UEFA U-21 Euro final earlier this summer, pouring in three goals in a stretch of just over 30 minutes in the opening half.

Alcantara has 11 goals for Barca since 2010. 

Versatility is a huge part of the young star's game, and it would add another element to United's attack without question. Weaknesses in Alcantara's game are few and far between. He's strong with both feet as well.

But most importantly, the former Barcelona youth star possesses superb anticipation and hustle. 

You won't see Alcantara dumping the ball in and then becoming a spectator shortly after. Instead, the dynamic midfielder is more likely to keep moving, giving his teammates a target and the defense something else to worry about.

Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola, who used to coach Alcantara at Barcelona, had strong praise for his former player, describing him as "'a super, super player' who 'can play in three, four or five positions,'" via The Guardian's Jamie Jackson.

Although he's biased, Guardiola's assessment of the United target is accurate. Players who can thrive in multiple roles are obviously invaluable, and Alcantara is one of those players but even better, as he's still improving. 

Wherever he winds up this summer, Alcantara is sure to blossom into a superstar. He was overshadowed by the star-laden lineup in Barcelona, but after his breakout summer for the Spanish U-21 team in Israel, the secret is out.

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