Despite only leaving England to return to his homeland earlier this year, Yohan Cabaye is already being linked with a stunning Premier League comeback. The former Newcastle pass-master has not enjoyed the most fruitful of spells in Paris, and talk in the media – on both sides of the Channel – suggests that January could provide a turn in the 28-year-old’s career.
Manchester United are one of a few teams sniffing around, and we here at FFC Towers think that Cabaye could be a massive player for Louis van Gaal. Not convinced? Here are FIVE reasons why he could be…
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Premier League experience
Whatever way you look at it, Cabaye was a success at Newcastle. Signed for a bargain rate, the Frenchman was excellent in the North East, playing a vital role in the Magpies’ impressive run to fifth place in 2011/12.
Upon his exit earlier this year there was an alarming drop off in Newcastle’s performances, illustrating just how important he was…
Wants to leave PSG
Despite only moving to PSG in January, Cabaye is understood to be ready to end his adventure in Paris. The silky 28-year-old has struggled for game time, with the majority of his performances having been from the bench.
United cannot offer Champions League football right now, so targeting players keen to move – as they did with Radamel Falcao – is a wise strategy.
Mix of creativity and solidity
While his renowned for his attacking flair, Cabaye is actually a remarkably solid player in a deeper midfield role. The French ace provides a good screen in front of his backline, and, although not a fierce tackler, is decent at winning the ball back to build attacks.
United currently lack such a player, with Daley Blind very much an unorthodox option, so snapping up Cabaye could solve a pressing concern for Louis van Gaal.
Keep him away from rivals
United are not the only side chasing Cabaye, with Arsenal and Liverpool also in the hunt. The 28-year-old is a wanted man thanks to his Premier League track record, and is likely to be the subject of multiple bids.
Letting Cabaye head to the Gunners or the Reds is likely to put United on the back foot again, so snapping him up just to keep him away from a foe may be wise…
In his peak
Central midfielders, typically, enjoy their peak years between 27 and 31. Cabaye is slap bang in the middle of that range now, and is likely to be at the very top of his powers for the coming few seasons. It’s all well and good looking into the distance with younger players, but the Red Devils need to get results right now.