Manchester United were dealt a boost in their pursuit for Hoffenheim’s Roberto Firmino, with the Brazilian’s agent Roger Wittmann revealing he will be leaving for the Premier League this summer, saying: “All I can say is that he’s moving to England.” The Red Devils are the only side from England so heavily linked, so a deal is expected to go through in the coming weeks. So what can supporters expect to see if he makes the switch to Old Trafford?
The highly-rated star is versatile, capable of playing on either flank, as well as through the middle. He’s enjoyed a standout campaign in the German Bundesliga, scoring and creating 17 goals in 33 games, and is now ready to make the step up from a side fighting for survival in the division.
Firmino, 23 boasts a skill set similar to Barcelona’s Neymar, making 139 successful dribbles. Despite his individual brilliance, he sets up more opportunities for teammates than he takes on himself too, creating 68 chances. And he’s highly industrious, making 88 tackles and 37 interceptions. Such youthful exuberance can often see him go too foul – making 73 fouls – but Manchester United Louis van Gaal has identified a player with real potential.
He’s come of age considerably in the last two seasons, scoring 23 goals and making 21 assists in 66 league games played. Hoffenheim are resigned to losing him as a result, but want to be fairly compensated too. This season has seen Firmino represent the Brazilian national team, and he’s taken his chance to shine with both hands, scoring three goals in six appearances.
Supporters will be able to get a good look at him in this summer’s Copa America with Brazil, but it also means any deal to join the Red Devils may have to wait until the tournament is over. He won’t want to be distracted with talks about his future, which means United may have to wait a couple of weeks before anything is completed.
Van Gaal has recruited players in his team that are versatile and interchangeable, which is exactly why Firmino was on the club’s shortlist. In-form goalscoring industrious forwards are hard to find, and £20M for the 23-year-old is a good deal based on what has been seen of Firmino so far. He will entertain the crowd with his wide array of skills, and will hope to make a name for himself by firing the team to glory next season.
