Manchester United have been urged to pursue the signing of Fulham star Sander Berge because of his similarities to Rodri. While a move for the Manchester City talisman is borderline impossible, especially as he nears a transfer to Barcelona, acquiring the Norway international is the next best thing, according to United icon Paul Parker.
Midfield overhaul continues
Michael Carrick, 45, has already welcomed Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos in his plan to overhaul United's midfield. United have also brought in Karl Darlow, Tynan Thompson, Kit Margetson and Cristian Orozco.
A possible deal to sign a third midfielder has not been ruled out, with Parker stating it makes sense to go for Berge, who is set to enter his third season with the Cottagers.
Parker's praise for Berge
Not shy to throw glowing praise on the 28-year-old, the former England full-back claimed Berge's potential impact on United's midfield could be as influential as the role Rodri has had at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking to PariuriX.com, Parker said: "I have seen that Sander Berge has been mentioned. I like him a lot. He is very steady and plays in a similar way to Rodri, even though he is still far from his level."
"Sander Berge is a very positive player. Very rarely gives the ball away and he is excellent at controlling the midfield. He is a big guy and everything about him looks great. I totally get why the club might be looking at him."
"He is always playing games as well. He is never injured, which I really like because it adds some continuity to the team."
Career path praised
Berge has yet to make the giant step in his footballing career, having begun his journey in England with Sheffield United before moving to Burnley and now finding himself at Fulham.
However, Parker has noted the midfielder's career choices as "positive", praising the incremental steps he's taken rather than moving to a bigger club too early. He explained: "He was excellent during the World Cup as well but I am not surprised because he always plays very well."
"I really like his career path, because he has slowly been making positive moves throughout his career and he has been a focal point at every single club he has been at. I don't think Manchester United can say no to him."
"If he wants to join the club, I think it is a no-brainer. You can't say no to that."
However, attempting to sign Berge could cost United heavily, as he has three years left on his deal at Craven Cottage.
