Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal is reportedly looking to use his strong bond with former Barcelona player Carles Puyol to help capture the Blaugrana’s out-of-favour defender, Marc Bartra.
According toMundo Deportivo(h/t Jamie Sanderson of Metro) the Red Devils are keeping a close eye on the rumoured Arsenal target. In the piece, it’s noted that Puyol now represents Bartra and therefore could have a decisive influence in where the centre-back ends up, should he leave Barcelona.
Bartra may have struggled to nail down a regular spot at the heart of the Blaugrana back line, making just five La Liga appearances this season, but he’s a big talent, as we can see here:
Indeed, it’s a surprise Bartra remained at the Camp Nou this season, despite the obvious ties he’ll have to the club after being schooled at the revered La Masia academy.