Manchester United could be set to miss out on one of their midfield transfer targets, as Nottingham Forest have entered talks with the former Aston Villa and Manchester City player.
Rúben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system poses a different challenge to most formations for the midfield players, as just two players have to cover the centre of the pitch, compared to the three-man engine room in Erik ten Hag’s 4-2-3-1 system.
While Casemiro would’ve been perfect for this a few years ago, he is now 33 years old and struggles to cover the full pitch as he used to, often diving into a tackle when he should stand his ground because he can’t get back quickly enough.
Many initally considered Manuel Ugarte a perfect option for Amorim’s midfield, but his struggles when in possession have led to some fans asking for an alternative signing in the middle of the park, and the manager may be thinking the same.
Even with Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo as midfield options, United have continuously been linked with new midfielders throughout the transfer window, despite their pursuit of more attacking players.
United to miss out on Luiz
One of United’s primary midfield targets was Douglas Luiz of Juventus, formerly of Aston Villa and Manchester City as a youngster. He could’ve been a cheap option due to his poor season in Serie A, despite his form when he played in the Premier League.
However, Football Italia have now reported that Nottingham Forest has opened talks over a potential move for the Brazilian midfielder. Forest are looking to close a loan deal with an option to buy the “excellent” Luiz if he performs well for the side next season; the total cost is believed to be just over £26 million.
The report does mention that another Premier League club and a Saudi Arabian team are also interested in Luiz, but Forest are currently winning the race, and are being given priority to secure a deal as quickly as possible.
Losing Luiz could lead Juventus to pursue a move for Morten Hjulmand of Sporting CP, another reported midfield target for United.
As a result, the Red Devils could be set to lose two primary targets if they don’t act quickly. However, the Benjamin Šeško deal is likely taking priority after United tabled a £73 million package offer to RB Leipzig for the player.
Collyer and Kone could be given a chance
With securing Sesko currently Jason Wilcox’s priority, a deal for a midfielder could be pushed back until the end of the transfer window, or United may choose not to move for one altogether, instead trusting the options already at the club.
Toby Collyer has played several times under Amorim and could be set for an increased role next season if United don’t sign a new midfielder.
Read More: Newcastle send clear message to Benjamin Šeško amid Manchester United’s £73m offer
Collyer has a unique mix of athleticism and possession quality that only Fernandes can match in the United squad, but he could still move on loan, as regular game time would be best for his development.
Alternatively, Amorim may choose to promote young Sekou Kone after his impressive season for Travis Binnion’s under-21s side. The Mali midfielder looked set to join Enzo Kana-Biyik on loan at Lausanne-Sport, but he instead joined the pre-season tour squad. Although he didn’t play, this could suggest he will stay at Old Trafford next season.
A surprise option could be to try Noussair Mazraoui or Ayden Heaven in the middle of the park, as both have experience playing in midfield for their former sides. Mazraoui hasn’t featured in pre-season since the opening game against Leeds United, but his importance to the side can’t be underestimated.
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 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.