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Man United are moving along nicely under Michael Carrick but his change of shape has highlighted a problem that needs to be fixed in the summer.
A few weeks ago, Man United fans didn’t have much hope for the future, now, dreams of competing for the Premier League are a reality again, albeit slightly distant just now.
A new manager bounce, derbies and big games are always easier for players to get up for but he has backed up a blistering start with equally as impressive results against Fulham and Tottenham. With no Champions League or FA Cup to distract the Red Devils, all attention is on the Premier League and securing a place in the top four.
Where Man United will need to recruit in the summer
The single biggest difference has been the change in formation. Players are in their natural positions, Kobbie Mainoo is flying, and Bruno Fernandes is pulling the strings from in and around the box, where he belongs, rather than having to track runners into his own penalty area.
The injury to Patrick Dorgu has had an effect on the shape though with Ruben Amorim’s system seeing almost every winger moved on.
Jadon Sancho might not earn a permanent deal at Aston Villa, however, United will no longer be burdened by his exorbitant salary. Sancho was the right player to sign, at the right time, but it just hasn’t worked out and United massively overpaid in terms of fee and wages. Either way, United will need wingers in the summer and they have received a boost in the pursuit of one potential target.
Man United eye Premier League winger
Ndiaye is a natural dribbler, one of the league’s most prolific and is capable of playing anywhere behind a central striker or even as a false no.9. His versatility would be hugely beneficial for United with Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Amad Diallo all capable of interchanging too alongside Dorgu’s emergence as a more attack-minded player.
Ndiaye is fully aware of the interest from United and has responded to links to Old Trafford in the past by refusing to rule out a move: “If clubs like Manchester United are interested, it means I’m doing something right.”
Although he didn’t confirm whether or not he had heard anything directly, Ndiaye didn’t rule out leaving Everton, for the right club.
The good news for United is that Everton were initially understood to be looking for a fee in the region of £75m for Ndiaye. however, the report also reveals that sources close to the player and Everton indicate £55-65m will be sufficient to “open discussions”.
This is good news for Jason Wilcox, but also his counter parts at Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.
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