Manchester United have identified a new midfielder target, but will have to fend off interest from Liverpool and Arsenal for a Serie A star.
Manchester United suffered their first taste of defeat under interim manager Michael Carrick as the Red Devils lost to 10-man Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park.
Whilst United stay in third place in the Premier League, the loss highlighted areas of the squad that undoubtedly need attention in the summer transfer window, come the end of the season, particularly the midfield.
United lacked the driving force that they needed to chase down the winner midweek, and resorting to the bench did not have the impact needed to capitalise on the numerical advantage.
The midfield department has been the centre of attention when it comes to recruitment, with Casemiro already announcing his departure at the end of the season, and a move for Manuel Ugarte looking likely following an underwhelming United career.
Many names have occurred in conversation, such as Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Sandro Tonali, but a cheaper Serie A alternative has occurred, capturing the eye of United as well as Arsenal and Liverpool.
Man Utd to battle for Khéphren Thuram
According to reports from Tuttojuve, French midfielder Kephren Thuram has gained attention from Man United, Arsenal and Liverpool, potentially earning himself a move in the summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old joined Italian giants Juventus in the summer of 2024 after making a good impression in the engine room of INEOS-owned OGC Nice. The France international has quickly become a fan favourite in the black and white of Juventus, taking after his father, Lillian Thuram.
A move for the midfielder has been described as “unstoppable” as Juve’s disappointing results under manager Luciano Spalletti grow with one win in their last seven games in all competitions, leaving the Bianconeri in sixth place in Serie A.
The report suggests that Liverpool hold the greatest interest currently, with an offer of around £39 million touted as a possible first offer for the Frenchman, a figure that Juventus will not take into consideration who see Thuram as “one of the most important elements” to the squad.
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Man Utd desperate for squad depth
This season, Manchester United will only play 40 games across all competitions, with no European football or domestic trophies to fight for; this at least allows for a full week of training before each game.
However, with a place in the Champions League looking more certain next season, recruitment will need to prioritise growing the depth of the squad, particularly the midfield.
United have been heavily reliant on the trio of Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes under Carrick, but next season could prove to be too much volume for the latter two to handle.
Read More: Bryan Robson praises Casemiro and reveals he would have liked to play alongside the Brazilian
Thuram may be a cheaper, strong recruit to bring to Old Trafford, providing that athletic presence and consistent availability that United can rely on.
With the midfielder being an aerial monster, solid ball winner and calming presence on the pitch, he could be the answer to United’s midfield worries.
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