After scoring the winner against Arsenal during the week, his third goal of the season so far, Everton's Seamus Coleman can expect to see his name linked with a number of the biggest clubs in Europe this January as his impressive form has generated further discussion as to whether it is time he sought a new challenge.
He's a vital player for Everton, he's clearly happy at the club, and with no desire from anyone associated with the Toffees it us unlikely that a move will happen next month, but while speaking to 2FM's 'Game On', David O'Leary revealed that Coleman would already be rampaging down Arsenal's right flank if he had got his way.
O'Leary recommended Coleman to Arsenal, but the move was knocked back due to the promise of a young Hector Bellerin, which, in fairness, does look to have been a wise decision as the former Barcelona academy pupil looks set to become one of the top players in the world in his position.
The former Leeds and Villa boss then expressed his disbelief that Man Utd didn't swoop for the Killybegs man during the transition after Ferguson.
Seamus Coleman has been as good a full-back as anyone for a long, long time," O'Leary told RTÉ 2fm's Game On.
I was trying to push him Arsenal’s way but we had a young lad coming through, [Hector] Bellerin.
I can’t believe a few years ago, particularly when Fergie went, Man United [didn’t sign him]. I thought he was absolutely spot on for Manchester United, the way they want to play, the way the lad plays.
There’s not many in Europe better than him in my opinion.
We share that opinion, Dave.
As for Coleman at United, Antonio Valencia has proven to be an excellent player under Mourinho, but that was not the case as recently as last season. In fact, right-back has been somewhat of a problem position after Van Gaal did not fancy Rafael, and Valencia struggled to adapt to a new position initially.
It may be too late for Coleman to make the move to Old Trafford, as while Valencia isn't getting any younger, the ability shown by youngster Timothy Fosu-Mensah at the back end of last season suggests that a signing does not need to be made, even if Eric Bailly was played out of position to cover for the suspended Valencia against Crystal Palace on Wednesday.
Do you think it's time for Coleman to move on? If so, get in touch and let us know where you think he would be a good fit.
