Manchester United have reportedly drawn up a list of seven names as they ramp up plans to sign a new midfielder for Ruben Amorim. Casemiro is out of contract at the end of the season and the Red Devils are aiming to find a new partner for Bruno Fernandes, or someone who allows the skipper to play further up the pitch.
Kobbie Mainoo’s future remains uncertain even if Casemiro departs Old Trafford in the summer, he is likely to be too forward-minded to be able to complement Fernandes. Manuel Ugarte was brought in to be the Brazilian’s successor, but he has struggled to make the desired impression since his £42million move from Paris Saint-Germain.
Attention has since turned to the market for a new midfielder. ESPN claim that leading the seven names drawn up by INEOS is Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. He has struggled to replicate the form of last season after United enquired about the possibility of signing him a few months ago.
His boss, Fabian Hurzeler, admitted that speculation surrounding Baleba and United has played a part in his drop-off. The Cameroon international is thought to be valued at approximately £100m on the south coast.
At that same price point are two more United targets, England colleagues Elliott Anderson and Adam Wharton.
Neither Nottingham Forest nor Crystal Palace are likely to let their star midfielders leave without a fight.
Depending on how much United are planning on spending will decide who comes in, with the £44m Joao Gomes of Wolves included on INEOS’ shortlist. The Molineux outfit have already said that they plan on keeping the Brazilian until at least the end of the season, however, despite the green light from Matheus Cunha.
His Wolves team-mate, Andre, is also on United’s radar.
While Atletico Madrid star Conor Gallagher is being monitored by United, having fallen out of favour under Diego Simeone. He may be available in January, on loan or for a permanent transfer, as he bids to force his way back into the England squad before the World Cup.
The seventh name on United’s midfield shortlist is Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, who is also highly rated by Bayern Munich.
The 24-year-old has been scouted by United this season as he continues to impress in the Bundesliga.
United spent big on their forward line in the summer, with Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo all joining for marquee fees. Their next focus is the engine room, where big plans are being made ahead of the summer.