Five facts about Arsenal & Manchester United transfer target Georginio Wijnaldum

Edward Bennett

10 years ago

With speculation in the Daily Star that both Arsenal and Manchester United are looking into signing PSV midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum this summer, here’s a look at five facts fans of both clubs should know about the highly-rated Dutchman…

1) Became a star at 16

A hot prospect from a very young age, Georginio Wijnaldum first broke onto the scene during his time with Feyenoord, being handed his debut at the age of just 16 years and 148 days, becoming the club’s youngest ever player and also being named Man of the Match for that game. Interestingly, it was current Southampton manager Ronald Koeman who was in charge at the club at that time, giving the midfielder a chance in the first-team to great effect.

2) Already very experienced

Since making his debut as a teenager, Wijnaldum now has a wealth of experience even though he is only 24. The attacking midfielder has 283 games at club level for Feyenoord and PSV, scoring a highly impressive 79 goals from midfield, often reaching double figures from the middle of the park due to his great ability at breaking into the box to join the attack.

3) He was made PSV captain last season

A young player with maturity beyond his years, Wijnaldum was made PSV captain last season due to his growing influence in the team, and has continued to perform superbly since being given this chance to lead the side.

4) Scored at the World Cup

Wijnaldum is also a regular for the Netherlands at international level, making 18 appearances for the senior Dutch national team and scoring two goals, including one against Brazil in last summer’s World Cup third-place playoff victory.

5) From a footballing family

Wijnaldum is from a footballing family, with his younger brother also playing in Holland, and with his more famous cousin Royston Drenthe, formerly of Real Madrid, Everton and, more recently, Championship outfit Reading.

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