Manchester United plan a midfield revamp under Rúben Amorim with a Serie A standout admired by Fabregas and Xavi now on their radar.
The Red Devils are heading into a pivotal summer as Rúben Amorim looks to rebuild a squad that no longer fits the demands of the club’s new direction.
With Ineos also overseeing a major reset, United are expected to make bold decisions across the pitch and midfield is one of the key areas that they’ll try to bolster.
Especially when Casemiro likely on the list to sell and Christian Eriksen departing for free, the club is preparing to bring in reinforcements that align more closely with Amorim’s tactical vision.
While Atalanta’s Ederson has been touted as a leading midfield target for United, another standout from Serie A has recently entered the frame as a serious contender.
United interested to sign Lobotka from Napoli
According to Tutto Mercato, Napoli’s Stanislav Lobotka has emerged as a target for Man United with his future at Napoli now in doubt.
The Slovakian is currently valued at £34m by Napoli and interested clubs will have to offer close to that in order to open negotiations. The report also namechecks Barcelona and PSG as rivals in the race for his signature.
While his profile and age may not perfectly align with Ineos focus on younger players, his experience and technical ability could still make him a valuable addition to Rúben Amorim’s squad.
This season, Lobotka has provided two assists in 32 appearances across all competitions, all coming from his role in defensive midfield.
Although not the primary option, Lobotka remains a serious candidate for United’s midfield overhaul this summer.
Fabregas and Xavi praised Lobotka as a top midfield target
Lobotka’s ability to control the tempo from a defensive midfield role has earned him high praise from those in the game, with many recognizing him as a key figure in Napoli’s Scudetto-winning season.
The Slovakian has quietly maintained his position as one of Serie A’s most influential midfielders, and Cesc Fabregas is the biggest admirer.
Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, Fabregas was effusive in his praise: “Napoli has many talented players, but Lobotka stands out. What a player, Mamma Mia. He is absolutely brilliant. Players like him are the ones who win matches with their football intelligence and ball recovery,”
“I’m a huge fan of players like Lobotka.” Fabregas told Corriere dello Sport.
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Xavi, Fabregas’ former teammate for both Spain and Barcelona, also lauded Lobotka’s talents, although he expressed his wish to see him at Barcelona.
“Lobotka is excellent in the build-up and rarely loses possession, He’d be a perfect fit for a club like Barca.” Xavi told Mundo Deportivo.
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