PSG manager Blanc admits interest in Man United winger Di Maria
Manchester United attacker Angel Di Maria is a player that Paris Saint-Germain head coach Laurent Blanc has confessed that he would like to sign.
PSG has been liberated by the easing of UEFA's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules and the former France boss has admitted that he wishes to strengthen his squad, though he believes this will not necessarily be an easy challenge.
Asked by L'Equipe if the Argentine is a player he admires, he replied: "Yes. We have our priorities... But to strengthen such a team you must target guys who are at big clubs and who are not easy to prise away. That's hardest for PSG. Di Maria, he's good.
"We have more freedom, but it remains a difficult project for us because we're not alone in wanting him. When you see the financial power of the English clubs, they are attacking everyone. Competition is very, very tough. Don't forget, Manchester United paid a fortune to sign him. For us to work effectively, we have to think of other solutions. We must be proactive."
The coach also dismissed the prospect of Zlatan Ibrahimovic departing, despite reported interest from AC Milan.
"There was never any doubt of him staying! I don't attach any importance to rumors. For us it was very clear: Ibra was always part of the 2015-2016 squad," the 49-year-old insisted.
In the midfield, meanwhile, Blanc says Yohan Cabaye, who departed for Crystal Palace, will be replaced and Thiago Motta, whose deal is up next summer, will not be allowed to go without a fight.
"Each departure will be replaced," he confirmed. "I want to keep Motta and the club wants to keep him. After that, it's up to the player."
Although UEFA's FFP ruling went in the favor of PSG, Blanc still feels his side is a bit hamstrung by the timing of the announcement.
"The decision has arrived a little late. We had already starting working on several signings. Now, this change has forced us to reflect," he said.
"Our strategy has been a little upset, but we can catch up."
PSG has already completed the signing of goalkeeper Kevin Trapp from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer.
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