Manchester United poised to revive interest in Russian Premier superstar
CSKA Moscow could be in for a tough time in January as they seek to retain the services of their talismanic midfielder, Keisuke Honda.
The Japanese international has been the subject of Red Devil interest on more than one occasion in the past, but have so far managed to swat away any attempts to prise away their star.
However, following a string of criticisms regarding their lack of midfield creativity, United have been linked with a number of big name middlemen, and the need for a playmaker could prove decisive.
Tom Cleverley was showing massive strides in improvement but had his season put on hold following an ankle injury against Bolton, meaning he won’t be back to full fitness until well into 2012.
Darren Fletcher is another recent casualty, being told by doctors to take time off from the game as he battles against a stomach illness.
The club were being strongly linked with a move for Inter playmaker and World Cup 2010 finalist, Wesley Sneijder, but were priced out of the £35m move by the Dutchman’s wage demands.
Honda may not be as proven as his Inter counterpart but would provide an exciting style of play as well as a host of international experience.
The 25 year-old has made over 30 appearances for the Japanese national side and scored eight goals in the process, as well as picking up the MVP award at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.
The Russian Premier league star has recently stated that he is take an upgrade in play so that he can play to a higher standard as well as more Champions League football which, despite their early exit this campaign, is definitely something United can offer.
Any deal for Honda would still be expected to cost the club around £18m and although it’s still a hefty price to pay, it’s to fill a vital area of the pitch in which the side are lacking, for a top quality creator of goals.
