C-c-called a U-turn
‘Manchester United have opened discussions with Benfica over the January transfer of Sweden international Victor Lindelof. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, Lindelof is first on a list of central defenders drawn up by Jose Mourinho to strengthen a back four that has proved problematic during the new Old Trafford manager’s initial months at the club’ – Duncan Castles, Daily Record, December 2, 2016.
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‘Manchester United have agreed an initial fee of €35million for the transfer of Sweden international Victor Lindelof from Benfica. As reported by Record Sport Online in December, the Old Trafford manager asked United to bring Lindelof to Old Trafford in the winter window. Benfica, however, demanded an unrealistic fee of €60m before extending the Swede’s contract to 2021 on substantially improved terms. Lindelof’s ability to build play from the back is understood to be an important factor in Mourinho’s pursuit of the player’ – Duncan Castles, Daily Record, June 11, 2017.
‘A year ago, United settled on Victor Lindelof because the Benfica-based Swede was cheaper than more polished options’ – Duncan Castles, Sunday Times, July 29.
You have to admire the dedication. When all looked well – Mourinho’s man. When it went badly – United settled (and screwed over Mourinho in the process). Well done Duncan.