Source: Manchester_EveningNews
United kids ready to come of age
UNITED are armed and ready to hit the January transfer window with a host of Europe's top names being linked with a move to Old Trafford. Edin Dzeko, David Villa and David Silva have all come under Sir Alex Ferguson's watchful eye, along with goalkeepers Manuel Neuer and Igor Akinfeev. More recently, wingers Hatem Ben Arfa and Angel Di Maria have emerged as targets but Ferguson has players already in his ranks hoping to convince him to keep his chequebook in his pockets during the January sales. Here are the men who could save United a fortune in the transfer market in 2010. Darron Gibson Age: 22 Position: Central midfield The Republic of Ireland international has undoubtedly been the find of the season so far for United. Handed a new contract in the summer, Ferguson moved quickly to quash speculation that the midfielder had no future at Old Trafford. While Gibson became frustrated with his lack of first-team opportunities in the early part of the season, United's current injury crisis has handed him the chance to make a statement and he has grabbed it with both hands. Stunning goals against Tottenham and West Ham prompted comparisons with Paul Scholes for his long-range shooting and he has proved himself a classy passer of the ball in the fashion of Michael Carrick. If he has a weakness, it is that he looks a little one-paced but, if he continues to develop at his current rate, he could establish himself as more than a fringe player in 2010. Verdict: Opportunities could be limited with Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher back in midfield following their makeshift roles as defenders as well as the return of Owen Hargreaves - but has proved an exciting prospect. Danny Welbeck Age: 19 Position: Striker Ferguson made the lofty prediction that Welbeck would force his way into Fabio Capello's World Cup squad after his breakthrough season last year. But the England under-21 international will have to establish himself as a regular for United before he can harbour any hopes of making it to South Africa. Goals against Wolves and Barnsley in the Carling Cup were reminders of his eye for goal but Welbeck has struggled to force his way past Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen this term, while Federico Macheda is also challenging him for a first-team spot. With Ferguson still eyeing a prolific goal-scorer in the form of Dzeko or Villa, and Mame Biram Diouf in the ranks from January, the competition for places is only going to get fiercer. Verdict: Ferguson remains keen on a striker and is likely to bring one in either in January or at the end of the season so it looks like Welbeck will have to bide his time. Federico Macheda Age: 18 Position: Striker Described as the next Cristiano Ronaldo by Ferguson, Macheda burst onto the scene in 2009 with a pivotal goal against Aston Villa at the end of last season. Despite failing to build on that so far this term - with no goals in five appearances - he has been handed a new contract and remains one of the most exciting prospects at United. Powerful and skilful, with an eye for the spectacular, Ferguson appears to have unearthed a gem - even if he is not yet ready to command a regular first-team place. Verdict: Like Welbeck, Macheda will have to wait for his chance at Old Trafford but Ferguson has proved he has a bright future at United after handing him a new long-term deal. Rafael da Silva Age: 20 Position: Defender The brilliant Brazilian was a revelation last season, but has been hampered by injury so far this term. An exciting full back in the guise of his heroes, Roberto Carlos and Cafu, he could make the right-back role his own for years to come. A problem position in recent seasons with injuries to Gary Neville and Wes Brown, Ferguson is desperate for stability on the right of his defence. Still a little naive defensively, Rafael has already proved himself an outstanding attacking outlet and a firm favourite with supporters. Verdict: If he continues to develop, Rafael has the chance to establish himself as first choice right-back between now and the end of the season. Gabriel Obertan Age: 20 Position: Winger The Frenchman was once considered one of Europe's most exciting prospects before his career stalled at Bordeaux. An old fashioned winger with pace, impressive dribbling skills and a direct approach, he has already shown glimpses of his raw talent. His work to set up Michael Owen's second goal against Wolfsburg earlier this month was the clearest sign of the ability Ferguson saw when he signed him for £3m last summer. With Nani continuing to frustrate and Ryan Giggs deployed more as a central midfielder these days, the door is wide open for Obertan to become United's first choice on the left. Verdict: Ferguson continues to look at wide men, with Hatem Ben Arfa and Angel Di Maria on his radar but Obertan has every opportunity to make the left wing his own. Which of these youngsters to you expect to establish a first team place at United? Have your say.
