Manchester United prepare move for new Makelele

File Photo: Monaco’s midfielder Nampalys Mendy (R) (Getty Images)

Manchester United new manager David Moyes has set his sights on signing Monaco midfielder Nampalys Mendy. The 20-year-old’s current deal with the newly promoted Ligue 1 side will expire in June and will be available on a free transfer in the summer.

The Premier League champions are in need of a defensive midfielder, especially after Paul Scholes retired from football for the second time and medical condition keeping Darren Fletcher out of action. Mendy has revealed to have agreed terms with a club but is yet to reveal his future destination.

“I agreed with the club where I’m going, but I will not say anything before the holidays,” Mendy told L’Equipe.

Meanwhile, Monaco manager Claudio Ranieri has compared Mendy’s performance to that of Makelele. The former Chelsea manager is disappointed with the exit of the defensive midfielder, but also went on respect the French U21 international’s decision of not renewing the contract with the Ligue 1 side.

“I do not understand his attitude. As soon as I saw him play, I said here is our Makelele. I trusted him and I played him. I think he will miss out on a great deal. But it’s his life, not mine. He has preferred to listen to his brother and agent and not his coach. It’s a shame,” Ranieri told Sky Italia.

Mendy has made over 60 appearances for Monaco after being promoted to the first team from the club’s academy in 2010.

Source: L’Equipe