It is going to be a crucial summer for Manchester United off the pitch, with a midfield rebuild set to be front and centre on Ineos’ list of priorities.
With Champions League football within touching distance after Monday evening’s triumph over Brentford, the Reds will receive a significant financial boost, putting them in a far better position to secure their primary targets.
However, Casemiro is moving on following the conclusion of the campaign, and Manuel Ugarte is also looking likely to depart, leaving one out-and-out senior midfield player, in the shape of Kobbie Mainoo.
The 21-year-old has been in sparkling form in recent weeks, and United must do all they can to find the right blend of players to complement him and aid his development.
Bruno Fernandes played the role admirably under former head coach Ruben Amorim, and, while the Portuguese playmaker did more than a decent job there, it simply is not his best position.
Therefore, we feel that Jason Wilcox and co must factor their starlet into every equation moving forward, ensuring that the required focus is given to a potential generational talent.
Casemiro’s replacement will prove crucial for Kobbie Mainoo
It goes without saying that finding the right man to fill our Brazilian’s boots is going to be a troublesome task, but it is something that United will need to address immediately.
The 34-year-old brings a wealth of top-level experience and nous, and, ideally, someone with similar attributes would be optimal.
However, the club could look to bring in a younger model to fill the void, with Brighton’s 22-year-old midfield dynamo Carlos Baleba heavily linked since last August.
Speculation surrounding Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni has also accelerated in recent weeks, and he is a player very much appreciated at M16.
Ironically, the Frenchman was Casemiro’s long-term successor at Madrid, and it would certainly make for a curious coincidence if United repeated the trick by bringing the 26-year-old to Manchester.
Other names for consideration are Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Atalanta’s Ederson, both offering a unique option that would provide a formidable balance alongside Mainoo.
As I’ve already stated, Uruguayan enforcer Ugarte will, in all likelihood, be on the move, having had limited minutes this season.
Inevitably, it will be of significant importance for a second or even third midfield arrival in finding a replacement for their popular Samba star.
Elliott Anderson has been the name on everyone’s lips after a stellar campaign with Nottingham Forest, but, if reports are true, he appears to favour Manchester City.
Adam Wharton is someone of a similar ilk to Carrick was as a player, using his intelligence and passing range to influence games.
The Blackburn native has impressed at Crystal Palace, but it remains unclear if United will act on their previous interest, given the inflated transfer demands from the Londoners.
Alternatively, Joao Gomes, at relegated Wolves, could represent the perfect low-cost option to fill any potential void left by a possible Ugarte sale. The Brazilian is well-regarded in Manchester.
Mateus Fernandes of West Ham is another intriguing name to keep an eye on. While nothing is currently advanced, he could well become a very viable option to would-be suitors.
The Portugal starlet is developing into a highly impressive performer, and, given his skill set, would surely dovetail well with the likes of Mainoo if a move to Old Trafford were to materialise.
One thing is for certain, it will be another exciting off-season for the Mancunian outfit, with their executive leadership team keen to build on an impressive first two years in the recruitment department.
But they must prioritise the stability and growth of Kobbie Mainoo, with every opportunity that the Stockport youngster could lead a revitalised midfield for a decade or more.
Who would you like to see Manchester United bring in to bolster their midfield ranks?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels – photo by operations@newsimages.co.uk via depositphotos.com.
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