Obviously, the gigantic football club, Manchester United, is paying exactly no attention to what an out of shape desk jockey in America thinks, says, or writes.

But they are, apparently, looking for a defensive midfielder to reinforce their midfield in January – something I said they desperately needed.

Rumor has it that they are looking at Atletico Bilbao’s Javi Martinez and Real Madrid’s Sami Khedira as options. Neither a pure destroyers, but both primarily look to dominate and screen the area in front of the defense.

Martinez is big guy (over six feet tall) and has the qualities of deep lying playmaker or regista to complement his ability to break up attacks and intercept passes. He’ll keep the team ‘ticking’ from the midfield, as well provide protection for the defense. He will also cost a lot money.

Khedira will cost about 40% less to buy out his contract, but doesn’t provide the same playmaking ability, however, he has a non-stop motor and can surge into the penalty box to support the attack, as well break up opposition attacks from deep.

If they can pry him away, Martinez is probably the better option. A healthy Darren Fletcher provides similar qualities to Khedira (arguably, Anderson does, too, though Anderson has more offensive upside than either and provides less defensive cover than either). Also, Khedira is (I believe) ‘cup tied’ in the Champion’s League. Which means that because he has played for another team in that club tournament, I suspect he would be barred from helping Manchester United in that tournament.