Manchester United are now stepping up their efforts to sign Fenerbahce youngster Yusuf Akcicek, who Jose Mourinho has likened to Raphael Varane.
Man Utd set to strengthen spine this summer
There are a number of positions in the United team that need to be addressed by INEOS this summer, and while the forward line is an urgent priority, additions are needed right through the spine of Ruben Amorim's set-up.
Maguire-Man-Utd-Europa-League Related
£90k-p/w star tells Man Utd he'd join regardless of Champions League football
A top INEOS target wants to move to United no matter the result of Wednesday's Europa League final.
Christian Eriksen looks set to leave Old Trafford after the final game of the season on Sunday against Aston Villa. The Denmark international is out of contract, and it appears there are no signs of a renewal.
Meanwhile, fellow midfielder Casemiro has also been mentioned as a player who could be allowed to leave this summer. The Brazilian was heavily linked with a move away in January, but nothing materialised, and since then, he has become an important player for Amorim, especially in Europe. But his £350,000-a-week wages could be a reason why the Red Devils decide to move him on.
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Surprisingly, Kobbie Mainoo’s future at Old Trafford has come into doubt in recent months, with reports even claiming that Amorim is ready to sell the young midfielder, whose current deal expires in 2027.
Changes are also needed in defence, where Jonny Evans will leave and so too could Victor Lindelof, while Lisandro Martinez continues to struggle with injuries.
Man Utd chiefs want to sign £21m Fenerbahce star
According to Turkish Football, Man United are ready to make a move and sign Yusuf Akcicek, a young centre-back who has thrived under Jose Mourinho this season.
Fenerbahce's Yusuf Akcicek celebrates scoring their second goal with Fenerbahce's Milan Skriniar
The report claims that United now want to step up their efforts having scouted Akcicek closely during the Süper Lig season. Despite the fact the 19 year-old is under contract until 2028, Fener are open to the idea of selling Akcicek, but they will demand at least €25 million, which is roughly £21 million.
The teenager joined the Turkish giants from rivals Galatasaray's academy in 2019, and has earned his place as a regular in matchday squads this season, with his manager even likening him to Real Madrid great and former Red Devil Varane.
It’s not just United who are interested in signing Akcicek, as Aston Villa are also believed to be interested in the youngster.
Yusuf Akcicek's 24/25 Süper Lig stats
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Starts
Touches per game
Passes per game (accuracy)
Clean sheets
Interceptions per game
Tackles per game
Balls recovered per game
Clearances per game
Given the likes of Evans and Lindelof may leave United this summer, the Premier League side may see Akcicek as a player who can become their long-term replacement, and he could be brought in for a fairly reasonable price.