Manchester United reportedly called a Premier League star in December, looking to win the race for the now Juventus target.
Manchester United could be one of the most active clubs in the January transfer market, especially after Rúben Amorim’s dismissal. The former Sporting CP boss was removed from his role as ‘head coach’ following his side’s 1-1 draw to Leeds United.
In the post-match press conference, Amorim claimed he was the “manager” of United, rather than the head coach he had been originally appointed as. Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox made the decision to sack the Portuguese, leaving Darren Fletcher in charge on an interim basis.
While Fletcher is currently preparing for his second match in charge of the senior side – against Brighton in the FA Cup – United are expected to appoint a different interim boss until the end of the season, with Ole Gunnar Solsjkær and Michael Carrick the leading candidates.
Wilcox will begin his search for a full-time ‘head coach’ after the interim manager is appointed, but that shouldn’t stop the necessary January business.
Amorim was desperate for a central midfielder before his sacking, and that issue remains after his departure. United will also be looking for wide players if the switch to a back four is to be a permanent one.
United make Senesi call
Central defence has been another area of interest for United’s recruitment staff. Before the Burnley match, United only had three fit senior centre-backs, not including young Tyler Fredricson.
Marcos Senesi has impressed for Bournemouth this season in central defence, taking a more senior role after the departures of Dean Hujsen and Illia Zabarnyi in the summer.
As per Tutto Sport, Senesi received a call from United in December over a potential transfer, but that doesn’t appear to have gone any further due to the ongoing managerial search following Amorim’s dismissal.
Juventus are also linked with the Argentine, as are Barcelona, and are now set to make a move to try and beat the Red Devils to his signature, while they remain distracted over new head coaches.
Right man, Wrong time
Senesi has been impressive this season, despite Bournemouth’s struggles. As per FBREF, he ranks in the top one per cent of centre-backs in the top 5 leagues for blocks (two per 90) and the top two per cent for clearances (eight per 90).
His in-possession statistics are also impressive: Senesi ranks in the top one per cent for assists, and in the top three per cent for progressive passes (6.61 per game).
Read More: Manchester United hold Ole Gunnar Solsjkær concern following Michael Carrick meeting
In Amorim’s back three shape, Senesi could’ve been a great addition to the centre-back ranks, but now that United have switched to a four-man defence, he simply isn’t needed.
United already have Matthijs de Ligt, Fredricson, Ayden Heaven, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez and Leny Yoro competing for just two positions.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 14:00 pm (GMT) on the United View YouTube channel.