Manchester United Transfer News: Latest Arjen Robben, Robert Lewandowski Rumours

An alleged rift between Bayern Munich stars Arjen Robben and Robert Lewandowski could reportedly push the former to Manchester United in the January transfer window.

That’s according to Fichajes (h/t the Daily Mirror), which claimed the Dutch winger could complete a midseason move to Old Trafford to link up with his former Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal again. It’s suggested the Red Devils are “close” to finalising a deal for the former Real Madrid and Chelsea man.

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If United were able to pull off what would admittedly be a shock transfer, it’d be a major coup given Robben’s reputation as one of the best wingers in world football. Here’s a taste of what he could potentially offer:

The Dutchman turns 32 during this campaign, and as such, if United were to entertain any deal, the transfer fee would have to take that into consideration. Nevertheless, Robben is a player who has matured and become more refined in his playing style as he’s got older, cementing his status as one of the best players in the game over the past three seasons.

From the right flank, he’s a devastating presence. Robben’s positioning is exceptional, keeping defenders on their toes with sharp darts. They're movements that allow him to pick the ball up in a variety of areas on the field and drive relentlessly at his opponent. 

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It’s not been the best season for Robben so far, having tried to overcome a string of injury problems. However, there have been some signs as of late, including a brace for the Netherlands against Wales during the most recent international break, that suggest he’s returning to the peak of his powers, per Squawka:

If Bayern are intent on keeping Robben out of United’s clutches, or anyone else’s for that matter, perhaps they could be tempted to sacrifice Lewandowski instead. The Pole has been one of the top centre-forwards in 2015, scoring a hatful of goals at the point of an exceptional Bayern side. However, some would argue, at their best, Robben is a more important player for the team.

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The striker's recent efforts in front of goal would be extremely difficult to replicate. As we can see, per WhoScored.com, Lewandowski’s form has been sensational:

Still, while Lewandowski has been linked with a possible big-money switch to Real Madrid, per the forward’s agent, Cezary Kucharski (via Jose Felix Diaz of Marca), a move to Old Trafford doesn’t look likely at this juncture.

“Manchester? It always rains there,” Kucharski said earlier this season when asked about a potential move to the city by TVN24 (h/t James Robson of the Manchester Evening News).

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Indeed, it’s unlikely United will land either player. If there is a rift between the two, that would be no great surprise. Both players are fighting for a spot in this star-studded team, competition levels are high, and each will desire to be the team's talisman. Just because there’s a disagreement doesn’t mean Bayern have to take what’d be drastic action.

Pursuing Robben wouldn’t be the best move for United anyway. Granted, he is a world-class player, but the Red Devils are crying out for more youthful exuberance in advanced areas to dovetail with the likes of Memphis Depay and Anthony Martial. Bayern would likely not be willing to relinquish the services of such a key player on the cheap, either.