Manchester United and Ruben Amorim are looking to sort out potential reinforcements for the squad in the coming weeks, even as they struggle to move on some of the deadwood in the squad who are no longer in the plans of the Red Devils manager.
The English club have already wrapped up a deal for Matheus Cunha from Wolves to reinforce the attack and also announced the arrival of talented youngster Diego Leon. The Red Devils are also pushing to finalize the transfer of Cameroonian attacker Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.
With all the focus on attack at the moment, it looks like Ruben Amorim is also focusing on the midfield this summer. As per Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Manchester United are eyeing Barcelona star Marc Casado this summer, with the Portuguese tactician identifying him as Manuel Ugarte’s alternative.
Man Utd need a Manuel Ugarte alternative
Casado had a breakthrough campaign under Hansi Flick last season. He came into the first team with the likes of Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal injured and impressed one and all with his tactical acumen, immaculate positioning, and high-intensity tackling, which quickly made him indispensable to the German manager.
Last season, Manuel Ugarte struggled to adapt to the Premier League, moving from PSG. He did show glimpses of improvement as the season went on and still has the talent to succeed at Old Trafford but it is always good to have competition. In Casado, the Red Devils have identified the perfect alternative.
Casado has interest; prefers Barcelona stay
Interest in Casado this summer isn’t just limited to Man Utd, with the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea also expressing interest in the Spanish youngster earlier this summer. The 21-year-old midfielder is said to have a release clause of around €100m in his Barcelona contract and wants to stay at the Catalan club.
Amorim’s tactical system demands midfielders who can screen the defence, recycle possession and step into build-up situations. Casado’s style of being a brilliant ball-winner but also keeping it simple with his passing should work wonders at Man Utd, where the creative players like Bruno Fernandes can take over.
While the release clause in itself is quite hefty, Man Utd might try to negotiate a deal with Barcelona for the Spaniard. With Casemiro now 33 years old and Ugarte still finding form, Casado would be a good addition. It remains to be seen if the Red Devils push to get this deal done and only time will tell how it plays out.