Lamela needs to prove he's worth the reported £30m

For a footballing nation like that of Argentina, the attacking threat available for selection is simply astounding. Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Carlos Tevez, Gonzalo Higuain – all four are playing their trade in the top two leagues with three of the games most recognisable clubs.

Of course, that's not even mentioning the likes of Javier Pastore, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Erik Lamela, the latter of which has been linked with a move to Manchester United. At just 21, the AS Roma ace has been touted as a player to emerge as one of the best in years to come.

Under recently appointed Aurelio Andreazzoli, the youngster is being played in his favoured position – behind the striker. Here, Lamela can exert himself creatively on the opposition, while providing the goal threat from behind the striker.

However, despite the swap in role, the Argentine is yet to really make a sustained impact since the appointment of Andreazzoli. Granted, he may've netted in the 1-1 draw with Udinese on Saturday night, but overall Lamela had a particularly poor game and one not befitting a player supposedly worth £30m.

United and Barcelona are interested and you can understand why. The player himself is one that will improve significantly with experience, but for the reported figure being touted, it's fair to say Lamela isn't worth it, not yet anyway.  

Follow @BenMcAleer1