Manchester United began their summer rebuild with the acquisition of the skilful Matheus Cunha and since then have ramped up their pursuit of Bryan Mbuemo, meaning Bruno Fernandes is set to play in a deeper role for the Reds next season.
Manager Ruben Amorim was unable to settle on a midfield pairing last season and tried out various combinations. Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and others were all tested in the pivot, however it was Fernandes who got the nod in the Europa League final.
While the skipper can operate in central midfield, he is known more for his attacking qualities and therefore Amorim will need to think carefully about his midfield partner.
The Portuguese head-coach has a plethora of options at the club, but the futures of Casemiro and Mainoo remain uncertain, meaning United may be forced to recruit a new central midfielder.
However, the Red Devils are actively searching for a new number nine and goalkeeper, meaning a midfield signing is low on the club's list of priorities.
Technical director Jason Wilcox wants to give Amorim a more competitive squad and therefore a new signing in midfield can't be ruled out, however the club will need to offload players first or look at cheaper options.
Defensive-minded midfielder required
With Fernandes set to play almost as a number eight, the Reds will need a more defensive-minded midfielder to avoid them being outrun in the middle of the park. Furthermore, that essentially rules out the possibility of Mainoo starting alongside United's number eight, as both players are known for their qualities in the final third.
Fernandes has an extensive passing range and he will be able to play through the lines to find the likes of Amad Diallo and Cunha.
His work-rate is also incredible, but with that in mind he will need an athletic partner to sweep up the large spaces in front of the backline.
His midfield partner will need to be a natural number six with strong defensive instincts. His partner won't need to contribute as much in the final third, but will need to be able to dictate proceedings and disrupt opposition attacks.
Options at the club
If the Red Devils decide against signing a partner for Fernandes, Amorim will be forced to use some of the players he already has in his squad. Ugarte who was brought in for £50m is a solid option, however doubts remain over his ability on the ball, which saw him dropped for the Europa League final.
The 24-year-old is a great presser and is excellent out of possession in terms of tackles and interceptions. Meanwhile, Casemiro's return to form last season will also be taken into consideration by the club.
Despite this, it is unfathomable to think that United can rely on the 33-year-old Brazilian to start every game, therefore it is unlikely that he will become Fernandes' partner. Toby Collyer showed great promise in his handful of starts last season, however his lack of big game experience won't do him any favours.
New signing to partner Fernandes
An ideal partner for the Portugal international would be Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, however their asking price of over £80m means it is virtually impossible for Wilcox to get his dream target.
Brighton's Carlos Baleba is also of interest following his impressive campaign last season, however, the south-coast side would also demand a hefty fee to consider selling one of their star players.
Felix Nmecha is a name that United have discussed internally with Wilcox meeting the midfielder during his time at rivals Manchester City where he operated as an academy chief.
Nmecha has all the qualities needed to partner Fernandes, but it remains to be seen if the club act on their interest.