Manchester United and Real Madrid could negotiate an earth-shattering transfer deal in January
Manchester United’s Ruben Amorim project is still in its early stages, with the Portuguese far from completing his ideal Old Trafford side - if he is given the time to see through his vision.
His attacking options were improved drastically over the summer. Issues remain, though, particularly in the midfield area. The Red Devils have been overran in the middle of the park in multiple games so far this season and attempted unsuccessfully to sign the likes of Carlos Baleba late in the transfer window.
On the pitch, a slow start and poor Manchester derby defeat were remedied slightly by a 2-1 victory over Chelsea on Saturday evening, albeit with both United goals coming while it was 11 vs 10. Goalscorer Casemiro’s sending off made for a nervy second half but the home side held on for an important victory.
In the transfer market, rumours continue to fly around behind the scenes at Old Trafford as the Red Devils prepare for what could be a blockbuster January window.
Man United and Real Madrid swap deal emerges after ‘bid’ made
According to reports by Defensa Central in Spain, Man United have launched a ‘bid’ worth €50 million (£43m) for Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde. Sensationally, the Red Devils have reportedly included academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo as part of the deal as they aim to secure one of the world’s best midfielders at the hands of Los Blancos.
The report continues that Madrid have ‘no intention of accepting’ the bid for a ‘very important’ player for Xabi Alonso’s side. Valverde is reportedly viewed as a future club captain, a role which is traditionally given to the longest-serving player for Los Blancos. Still just 27, the Uruguay international has been a first-team regular at the Bernabeu since 2018/19 after his initial signing in 2016.
Valverde swap deal could be huge for both Man Utd and Mainoo
From a United point of view, their reasons for launching this ambitious move are clear. Valverde has been known as one of the finest midfielders in world football for several years now, boasting three La Liga titles, two Champions Leagues and countless other honours. He is equally capable defensively as in starting attacks, meaning he is the ideal player to play in the two in midfield under Amorim.
For Mainoo, if his game time does not improve for United in the coming months but the side do well enough to suggest the head coach may be sticking around for the long run, an exit may be his only choice. Where better to have that fresh start than in sunny Madrid at arguably the only club in the world bigger than Manchester United?
He will naturally find it a challenge to force his way into Los Blancos’ midfield initially, but it is easy to forget he is just 20 years-old. His potential is still thought to be sky-high and the right surroundings could see him reach the heights everyone knows he is capable of.
From Los Blancos’ perspective, they will be highly reluctant to part ways with Valverde but will see the value in Mainoo if the right offer is made. It may still take an increased bid by the Red Devils. It will be intriguing viewing to see how this situation has developed come January.
Continue Reading