Tottenham manager Thomas Frank and Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim.placeholder image
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank and Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim. | Getty Images
The 25-year-old midfielder was one of the stand-out performers at the Club World Cup this summer.
This could be even more so when you consider that Casemiro has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. If that is the case, Ruben Amorim will need to sign at least one midfielder to fill the void left by both Eriksen and Casemiro.
The Man United manager will want someone who can help to control the ball in midfield and improve United’s transition play, something that the Red Devils struggled with last year, both under Erik Ten Hag and Amorim.
Man United scouting Richard Rios
The Red Devils have already been linked to several midfielders this summer, but the newest link is potentially the most intriguing for United fans, as it comes in the form of Palmeiras star Richard Rios.
The 25-year-old Colombian international was very impressive at the Club World Cup, he helped Palmeiras to the quarter-finals, where they fell to eventual champions Chelsea. Rios provided two assists in five appearances in the competition, impressive considering that his main role is as a defensive midfielder.
According to a report by Palmeiras Online, Manchester United have sent scouts to watch the 25-year-old, who has an £85m release clause in his contract. He has been at the Brazilian club for two years, making 137 appearances, scoring 11 goals, and providing 10 assists.
Premier League rivals Tottenham have previously been linked to him, according to LondonWorld, alongside Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain. He would be a fantastic replacement for Eriksen in the holding midfield role, but it is understood that Palmeiras don’t want to sell him, and so Rios could command a hefty transfer fee.
Which other midfielders have Man United been linked with?
Rios is one of three central midfielders who have been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer. Another being Atalanta star Ederson, who is very well regarded in the Serie A, and considered one of the best all-around defensive midfielders.
Reports have said that United are in talks over a deal to sign the Brazilian midfielder, who is expected to cost around £52m. Inter Milan and Juventus are also interested in the 26-year-old. He made 49 appearances last year, scoring five goals, and two assists for Atalanta.
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