Manchester United have opened talks with a World Cup-winning midfielder to bolster Rúben Amorim’s first-team squad ahead of next season.
Rúben Amorim will aim to completely overhaul the first-team squad after the club’s dismal Premier League campaign last season, which saw them finish in 15th place.
Despite this, Manchester United have signed just one senior player this summer: Matheus Cunha joined the Red Devils from Wolverhampton Wanderers and looks set to make his debut for the club against Leeds United in the opening pre-season fixture.
While Cunha is the only definitive first-team recruitment, several young players have joined the club, including Paraguay’s Diego Leon, who adds to United’s exciting left back options, along with Harry Amass and Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu.
The reason behind United’s lack of new additions this summer has been the drawn-out negotiations in the deal for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. Jason Wilcox will be looking to secure a deal for Andre Onana’s international teammate sooner rather than later, so the club can continue to bring in new players.
Many thought that the addition of Mbeumo would see club captain Bruno Fernandes drop deeper into the double pivot alongside Casemiro, but if United fail to agree a deal for the Cameroonian forward, Fernandes may continue to play more advanced and the Red Devils may look for a new midfielder.
Tolisso open to United move
With United so restricted financially, especially after paying over £60 million for Cunha and potentially doing the same for Mbeumo, they need to look for cheaper options this summer in other positions.
Olympique Lyonnais’ Corentin Tolisso is said to be “open to joining” United this summer, despite recently becoming the club captain for the French club, reports L’Equipe.
The former Bayern Munich central midfielder played against Amorim’s side last season in the Europa League semi-final, receiving a red card just before the end of normal time for tripping Leny Yoro.
Tolisso, who has scored 63 goals in his career, clearly impressed on his visit to Old Trafford, as United have now opened talks with his representatives to see if a deal can be reached this summer.
Valued at just under £10 million and with a reported wage of £90,000 a week, Tolisso could be a good move for the Red Devils this summer, another experienced midfielder who could bring balance to the midfield in a very unbalanced time at the club.
Does Tolisso suit Amorim’s needs?
With United so restricted this summer, it is important to consider if Tolisso is a necessary signing, even if he would cost the Red Devils under £10 million.
According to FBREF, Tolisso’s strengths come when in possession, making over six progressive passes per game, as well as being one of the best midfielders in the world for non-penalty goals.
While he is also impressive in the air, his tackling and interception statistics leave a lot to be desired, making just over two tackles a game and not even one interception for every 90 minutes he plays.
Rather than being an all-action, ball-winning midfielder that United need, Tolisso would add to the creative options that Amorim already has, meaning he would fight for gametime with Kobbie Mainoo and Fernandes.
While he could only cost £10 million, it could be a better option to spend this money on another area in the squad and trust the talent already at the club.
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