Victor Lindelof became Manchester United‘s first major acquisition this summer when his transfer was confirmed on Saturday evening.
The 22-year-old Swedish international relocates to Old Trafford for a reported £31m ending a five-year association with record Portuguese champions Benfica.
A central defender by trade his arrival strengthens manager Jose Mourinho’s defensive options as he looks to fight on four fronts next season.
Lindelof’s presence could spell trouble for Chris Smalling and Phil Jones, with Mourinho all-but guaranteeing Eric Bailly a starting berth, and reports suggesting Lindelof and Bailly will be the Portuguese tactician’s first choice central defensive pairing.
And there’s a reason why the Ivorian international is at the forefront of Mourinho’s thinking. Bailly, compared to his current teammates as well as Lindelof, averages the most tackles and interceptions won per 90 minutes.
However, when it comes to aerial duels won and clearances per 90, it’s Smalling who comes out on top.
Ever-present for Benfica in the season just gone, Lindelof played in all but two of The Eagles league matches, scoring once in the process.
Since joining from Vasteras Sk in the summer of 2012 he’s made 73 first team appearances for Benfica with his performances subsequently earning his 12 international caps
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