Nasri is just what United need, says ex-Old Trafford star
Published 12:23 30/06/11 By David McDonnell
Samir Nasri is the midfield playmaker Manchester United need, according to former Old Trafford star Paddy Crerand.
Crerand, a European Cup winner with United in 1968 and now a pundit on MUTV, said the Arsenal midfielder would fit in perfectly at Old Trafford.
United are preparing a £20million bid for Nasri, who has one year left on his current contract after refusing to sign a new deal with Arsenal.
Although Arsene Wenger has insisted he will not sell Nasri to United, Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to test his managerial rival's resolve with a firm offer.
"The player that interests me most at present is Nasri," said Crerand. "I'm sure he can do the midfield job for us and become the play maker at Old Trafford.
"He is right up there with the Barcelona players like Xavi and [Andres] Iniesta in my book but the talk of [Cesc] Fabregas going to the Nou Camp could potentially jeopardise that one.
"The problem that Arsenal face is the length of contract, surely they can’t let Nasri go on a free next year? I doubt they will let both players leave Arsenal so I suspect an interesting few days ahead.
"The team go out to the States on July 10th and that means we will probably go all out to bring any targets that we have into the club to enable them to be part of the full pre-season.
"It makes a big difference believe me if players can enjoy that full period with the rest of the team. If there is another signing to make I expect it will be in the next 10 days."
