Manchester United have been quiet so far this January transfer window, but work behind the scenes is expected to be taking place ahead of the summer
Ruben Neves
Ruben Neves is coming to the end of his contract at Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia(Image: Getty Images)
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It is no secret that Manchester United plan to overhaul their midfield in the summer, with Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte emerging as potential departures. Casemiro is approaching the final months of his contract at Old Trafford, although the club hold an option to extend his stay by a further year, while Ugarte has also been linked with a move away.
Ajax are reportedly one of the clubs monitoring Ugarte's situation, according to reports in the Netherlands. The Uruguay international is believed to be open to a move to Amsterdam after struggling to fully adapt to the Premier League.
The Dutch side are said to be interested in signing him on loan for the remainder of the season, but whether a deal can be completed before the February 2 deadline remains unclear, with his reported £120,000‑a‑week wages posing a potential obstacle.
Regardless of what happens, United could still strengthen their midfield at the end of the season, and several options including Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton have already been highlighted as players under consideration.
With that said, the Manchester Evening News looks at the possible midfield deals United could be involved in...
Ruben Neves 'blow'
Neves has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs as he enters the final months of his contract at Al‑Hilal. A return to England has been suggested, with United among the sides linked with the Portuguese midfielder.
The club previously explored signing Neves during his time at Wolves, but they are now likely to face strong competition for his signature at the end of the season. However, Spanish newspaper AS (via Cadena SER) claims the Portugal international has already 'chosen' Real Madrid as his next destination.
Those higher up at the club are believed to be considering signing a midfielder and Neves' name is reportedly 'above all' that could arrive at Real this month.
AS, quoting Cadena SER journalist Anton Meana, have relayed his comments. He says: "Ruben Neves wants to sign for Real Madrid in this winter market. Coaches of the football department believe that the team needs to reinforce the midfield, but the board have doubts about his performance.
"Due to his contract ending in June, they do not see it necessary to pay a transfer fee for him this month. The player has a very juicy renewal offer from Al Hilal, but he wants to play for los Blancos."
Reds learn Sunderland's Noah Sadiki stance
The 21‑year‑old midfielder has adapted quickly to Premier League life following his £15million move from Union Saint‑Gilloise last year. His impressive performances have already seen his valuation rise to more than double what Sunderland received for him.
Noah Sadiki
Noah Sadiki in action for Sunderland(Image: SmartFrame/Every Second Media)
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Sadiki has reportedly emerged as a summer target for United, with The Sun claiming he's being considered as a potential replacement for Casemiro, who is expected to depart at the end of the season as the club looks to reduce wage costs.
However, the report adds that Sunderland will reject any approaches. Manager Regis Le Bris is said to view Sadiki as one of his 'crown jewels' and among several 'untouchable' players at the club.