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Sir Alex Ferguson tells Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer the one player he must sign
SIR ALEX FERGUSON still has a say behind the scenes at Manchester United and he has reportedly advised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer that there is one player he must sign this summer.
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The Old Trafford legend may not be in the dugout anymore but he still has the club’s best interests at heart.
His judgement is the amongst the best to ever exist within the game, so if he ever offers his former player Ole Gunnar Solskjaer advice, he should listen.
According to The Sun, Ferguson has told the Norwegian there is one deal he must try and get over the line this summer.
The player he has earmarked is Scottish midfielder John McGinn, who has made made a real impression since arriving at Aston Villa from Hibernian.
The 77-year-old is close friends with the star’s grandad Jack.
Despite their close relationship the key motive behind the recommendation is the player’s footballing ability.
He was the best player on the pitch as Aston Villa secured their return to the Premier League with a 2-1 win over Derby in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.
Dean Smith is not interested in selling the 24-year-old however an offer of £50million would force the Midlands club to change their stance.
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Solskjaer is desperate for two more midfielders before the August 8 deadline.
Whether he will take his former manager’s advice on board remains to be seen.
Sean Longstaff is their first choice when it comes to midfield targets while Bruno Fernandes continues to be linked with a switch from Sporting Lisbon.
Ed Woodward stayed behind in Manchester for the club’s pre-season tour to work on transfers.
But the executive vice-chairman has failed to make any real progress with the clock ticking fast.
A deal for Harry Maguire still hasn’t been wrapped up with Leicester demanding a fee of £90million.
Ferguson’s approval of McGinn could encourage United chiefs to put their hands into their pocket.
Solskjaer’s men kick start their new campaign on Sunday August 11 at home to Chelsea.