Mourinho in Belgium: Jose Mourinho was seen in the game between Belgium and Iceland, and it has now been revealed who he was scouting.
Jose Mourinho was seen in Belgium during their 2-0 win over Iceland in the Nations League game last week. A lot of speculations were made over Mourinho’s presence in the stands, with many suggesting that the United manager could be scouting Toby Alderweireld.
The defender was linked heavily with a move to Old Trafford in the summer, but no bid was made, with further reports suggesting that the board vetoed Mourinho’s list of potential signings.
Manchester United have been facing issues in their defence since the beginning of the season. A slump in Eric Bailly’s form forced Mourinho to play Scott McTominay in the central defence, before Lindelof and Smalling forged a partnership later in the season.
However, recent reports from Belgium suggest that Mourinho didn’t scout Alderweireld at all, but one of this teammates.
Mourinho in Belgium:
The Belgian media outlet, HLN has claimed that the Manchester United manager was in the stands to scout Belgian midfield star, Axel Witsel.
Manchester United were linked with a move for Witsel last summer, but the midfielder eventually joined Borussia Dortmund.
Jose Mourinho watched Axel Witsel in action last week. United will make a move for the midfielder in January. #mufc [HLN]
— United Xtra (@utdxtra) November 20, 2018
It is reported that Mourinho is keen on making a move for Witsel in the January transfer window, and the club is ready to offer profit on investment as well. However, luring the midfielder away from Borussia Dortmund, and convincing the club itself, will prove to be an issue.
Jose #Mourinho wants to sign Axel #Witsel. The midfielder joined #BVB this summer. Mourinho is said to have watched him in the Belgium – Iceland match. [HLN via FT]
It’s hard to imagine that Borussia #Dortmund would sell him. Axel Witsel seems to be happy too in Germany. pic.twitter.com/2RRal3p0cD
— German Football Daily (@GERFootDaily) November 20, 2018
Borussia Dortmund are currently at the top of the table in Bundesliga and are strong contenders for the title at the moment. Witsel has featured in every league game so far, starting in 10 of the 11 games.
A night to remember, an honour to represent @belgianreddevils over the past 10 years and reach 100 caps 🙏🏽🇧🇪
A good result and good performance from the team in our last home game of the year 💪🏽
Thank you for all your support 🙏🏽❤️#REDTOGETHER 🇧🇪 #AW28 pic.twitter.com/VclD7RH3gO— Axel Witsel (@axelwitsel28) November 15, 2018
Manchester United, on the other hand, are 8th in the league and a massive 12 points behind league leaders Manchester City.
My thoughts on Witsel is he’s having an amazing season, 30 in January so he’s perfect for Mourinho and shouldn’t cost too much. Oh and anything to bin Matic, I’m in favor for. Could also allow AP to grow at that position even though he should be at it right now..
— FergieTime™️ (@SSIIIIUUUU) November 19, 2018
What next?
Manchester United will return to Premier League action this weekend as they take on Crystal Palace.
