Simon Kjaer
The Daily Mail claim this morning that Manchester United will replace Serbian defender Nemanja Vidic with highly-rated Danish centre back Simon Kjaer .
Neil Moxley writes: "Sir Alex Ferguson has identified Denmark international Simon Kjaer as the replacement for Manchester United’s unsettled defender Nemanja Vidic. Kjaer has come to United’s attention after a series of inspirational performances for Palermo. The 20-year-old has an £11million buy-out clause in his contract with the Italian club."
Moxley adds: "Vidic has just 18 months left on his contract and is certain to be sold before Ferguson risks losing him for nothing. The Serb is believed to favour a move to Spain, having received favourable reviews about La Liga from international team-mates."
Kjaer reportedly has a release clause of 12 million euros (£10.8m) and he is eager for a move from Palermo. A host of other clubs are also interested – including Chelsea, Liverpool and Juventus.
The Danish international (6 caps) has been impressive since joining Palermo at the start of the 2008/2009 season. During this season so far he has played 11 matches, scored one goal and picked up four yellow cards.
IMScouting’s network of scouts in Italy describe Kjaer as a defender with "great leadership skills he is athletically gifted, tall, very strong and well built. Kjaer also possesses great aerial ability and heading. He is a hot prospect with a bright future who can be a top level central defender, but still needs to improve his pace and technical ability."
