A Manchester United summer transfer target, who came close to joining Rúben Amorim’s squad, is eyed by Real Madrid over a future move. United could still be interested.
Manchester United’s summer transfer window was a successful one, but they didn’t complete every deal that they wanted to and have been left with several gaps in the squad.
Liam Delap was one of the first targets for Jason Wilcox, but he chose to join Chelsea, so United were forced to pivot to Benjamin Šeško later in the transfer window.
Rúben Amorim’s side also missed out on Antoine Semenyo – even though the manager dined with the Bournemouth forward – so United again turned their attentions to Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
A known target for the Red Devils was a new central midfielder, but United failed to sign a new man for the engine room after the Carlos Baleba deal became impossible.
However, United were interested in other midfielders as well; Baleba wasn’t the only option to replace Casemiro in the heart of the team.
Guerra eyed by Madrid
Javi Guerra was one of the other names on United’s midfield list, with some outlets reporting that the Valencia midfielder gave the “green light” to Amorim’s side, but a deal never materialised.
United could reignite their interest in Guerra in January, especially if Bruno Fernandes is subject to further interest from Saudi Arabia, but they will face competition from Real Madrid.
Team Talk has reported that Real Madrid are looking to bring the Spaniard to the club, and they could target a move in January if they feel United remain interested.
Guerra could be a good fit for Amorim’s midfield, but United will have to act fast if they want to fend off Madrid in a transfer battle.
United will trust talent already at the club
Rather than buying a new midfielder in the January transfer window, United are more likely to trust the talent already at the club, including young Sékou Koné and Kobbie Mainoo.
With just the Premier League and FA Cup to play in, United don’t need five midfield options, but Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte have both struggled for form at times at Old Trafford.
Kone – who has impressed for the under-21s – is out injured with an eye injury for the time being, but could push for first-team opportunities when he returns to full fitness.
While he isn’t the finished article, Kone has both passing and energy on his side, whereas Ugarte struggles in possession, and Casemiro can’t cover the ground he used to.
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