Manchester United’s midfield shortlist is still growing for their summer rebuild, and a shock move for a Chelsea youngster could be made.
The second phase of Manchester United’s rebuild is set to take place this summer, with a major midfield transformation.
Having spent over £200 million to bring in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Šeško to address the poor goal scoring from last season, the club are set to shift their focus to the midfield.
This has become all the more apparent after Casemiro’s announcement that he would be leaving the club at the end of this season, while the futures of both Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte also remain fairly uncertain.
With United adding multiple names to their shortlist of potential midfield targets, a Chelsea youngster has been linked with a shock move to Old Trafford.
United could make a move for Santos
According to Brazilian outlet NT Vascaínos, United are being linked with a potential move for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos.
The 21-year-old is reportedly well-liked at his current club, but is not considered untouchable, opening the door for a potential move away in the summer, taking an encouraging position for possible suitors.
United are reportedly the main candidate keeping tabs on the Brazilian midfielder, with Serie A giants Juventus also said to be interested.
Despite enjoying more minutes since Liam Rosenior took over at Stamford Bridge, having worked together previously at RC Strasbourg, the London-based club would still consider offers if the correct proposal is made in the summer.
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United need experienced option in midfield
This potential deal is still at an extremely early stage, but with Manchester United showing growing interest in Santos, the Brazilian could follow in Mason Mount’s footsteps in making the switch from West London to Old Trafford in the summer.
At a reported price of around £35 million, the 21-year-old could prove to be a worthwhile purchase in the summer to add key depth to the side ahead of a likely Champions League campaign next season.
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With the likes of Santos, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson all linked with moves to Manchester United in the summer, they meet INEOS’ transfer targets of having Premier League experience and being young.
However, they risk having a side that is too young, lacking the much-needed experience. United don’t just need potential in the midfield; they need a midfielder who can control the game and dictate play under pressure.
United can look at Santos’ club, Chelsea, as an example, with fans crying out for experience, especially in defence, with the club having the youngest average squad age at 23.5.
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