Manchester United rumoured to be in for Juventus defender

The summer solstice today brings not only a full moon but a fresh transfer rumour, with Manchester United being linked to Juventus centre-back Leonardo Bonucci. He's an exceptionally good player; not only is he rock solid in defence but he's also got thoroughly impressive playmaking capabilities, enabling him to step out from the back and ping passes into the path of onrushing forwards. He also once punched and chased off an armed robber who had the temerity to demand his watch. He really is the complete package.

But he's also almost certainly not coming to Old Trafford. Aside from the simple fact that Juventus have shown an impressive unwillingness to sell their very best players, Bonucci is now 29 years old: that's old enough that it makes little sense for United to pay big money, but young enough for Juve to demand said big money. What's more, he's undoubtedly been one of their most important players in their successful campaigns of the last few seasons, and having made over 200 appearances for the club, he's certainly achieved cult hero -- or what the Italians call bandiera -- status.

It wouldn't at all come as a great surprise to hear Mourinho is interested in strengthening United's defence further after the capture of Eric Bailly. Chris Smalling certainly enjoyed the most impressive season of his career to date, but there remains nothing to suggest he's good enough against the very best attackers. But while the question remains open, it seems unlikely that Leonardo Bonucci is the answer.