Andy Mitten has recently shed light on Manchester United’s ‘main target’ after losing out on Antoine Semenyo.
The January transfer window is well underway, and it is no surprise to see the rumour mill churning out reports every day.
With the squad depth at its thinnest with players away on AFCON duty and a growing injury list including Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and Matthijs De Ligt, Manchester United must act this window.
Rúben Amorim’s side is currently three points behind fourth-place Liverpool and remains firmly in the race for Champions League football.
With the club only looking at targets they already had in mind for the long-term future, it is no surprise to hear any of the names on the list.
United all in for Anderson
Until recently, it was known that Antoine Semenyo, with his £65 million release clause, was the number one target for the club.
However, with his preference reportedly being rivals, Manchester City, it has forced the club to pivot to different targets.
On his YouTube channel, Andy Mitten recently disclosed who the known primary target is for the club. He said: “Two months ago, Manchester United’s main target was Elliot Anderson. That was true, and it’s still true.
“I also said Manchester United wanted to sign Antoine Semenyo, and that was true, but Antoine Semenyo didn’t want to join Manchester United. He had four or five Premier League teams who wanted him, for now, another team wanted him in the summer, but he wanted to leave Bournemouth now.”
More than one midfielder is required
Elliot Anderson would no doubt do wonders for United and is exactly what United need. As would the likes of Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba, should the club go for them instead, although unlikely.
However, just one midfielder would not be enough for the squad.
As the recent injuries to Fernandes and Mainoo have shown, as well as when Casemiro was suspended making it three of the four midfielders injured, United have little to no depth when the going gets tough. Even if one midfielder was brought in, the lack of depth still exists.
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The club also need to be prepared for a change of system with or without Amorim at the helm. If the Portuguese decided to use three in midfield, then with the current four senior midfielders, having one in reserve is not enough.
Whether they do end up going for another midfielder like Joao Gomes, who is Premier League-proven or someone else, two midfielders should be on the agenda.
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