The summer transfer window appears to be the biggest period in Manchester United’s recent history, with any future success depending on the work done in the market.
The Red Devils have endured a positive campaign in the Premier League, as Michael Carrick’s men currently sit third in the division with just seven games remaining.
After taking the reins from Ruben Amorim, the temporary boss has certainly done an excellent job, but it still remains to be seen if he will take the role on a permanent basis.
Michael-Carrick
Whoever is selected to lead the club into 2026/27 and beyond will have a hugely talented squad, with the senior side now in their best place for many years.
However, if they are to reach the next level and compete for titles, the hierarchy will desperately need to address the rising issues in the midfield department.
Man Utd enter the race to land European star
With Casemiro announcing he will be departing United at the end of his contract, a new central midfielder has now become crucial for the hierarchy this summer.
Countless players have been linked with a move to Old Trafford, with Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali a player who currently sits at the top of their shopping list.
Sandro-Tonali-Newcastle
The Italian is expected to depart the Magpies in the summer due to financial issues, which could see the Red Devils make an approach for his signature in the months ahead.
However, the 25-year-old isn’t the only player currently on their shortlist, with Juventus star Khephren Thuram another star who’s greatly admired at present.
According to Italian outlet Tutto Juve, 'foreign offers' are expected for the French international, who’s racked up a total of 42 appearances across all competitions this term.
The report states that United are expected to burst into the race for his signature this summer, with Liverpool another side credited with an interest in his services.
Khephren-Thuram-Juve
It also confirms that whilst the Italian outfit don’t want to lose the 25-year-old during the off-season, they may be forced to cash in if an acceptable offer is presented.
Why Thuram would be an upgrade on Tonali
As previously mentioned, Tonali is just one of the players United are considering ahead of the summer, but such a move could prove to be an expensive one.
The Magpies are said to be demanding a fee in the region of £80m for his signature - a deal that would be one of the Red Devils’ most expensive in their 148-year history.
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A number of their additions haven't lived up to expectations.
Whilst he does possess the needed Premier League experience, such a deal could well prove to be too expensive - especially if multiple additions are to be made in such an area.
As a result, a deal for Thuram could well prove to be a more viable option, with the Juve star a player who could be a perfect fit for the current United squad.
Khephren-Thuram-Juventus
Whilst he’s never featured in England throughout his professional career, his stats from his spell in Italy do highlight a lot of quality - many of which would be perfect for the Premier League.
Throughout the ongoing campaign, the 25-year-old has completed 86% of the passes he’s attempted, whilst also managing to create 1.1 chances for his teammates per 90.
Both of the aforementioned tallies are higher than those produced by Tonali, which could suggest he’s arguably a better option for United with the ball at his feet.
His dominance with the ball at his feet over the Newcastle star is further reflected in his tally of 61% dribbles completed and 2.4 touches in the opposition box per 90.
Khephren Thuram - Serie A stats (2025/26)
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Goals & assists
Pass accuracy
Chances created
Dribbles completed
Touches in 18-yard box
Duels won
Shots taken
Thuram’s talent in possession has led to huge praise in recent months, with reputable analyst Ben Mattinson labelling his quality as “Pogba-esque” back in 2024.
However, without the ball, the Juve star has also had the upper hand on Tonali, subsequently making twice the amount of tackles per 90 this season.
Juventus' Francisco Conceicao celebrates scoring their first goal with Khephren Thuram
Other tallies, such as 55% duels won and 1.8 shots taken per 90, highlight his all-round quality, which could make him a huge asset for the Red Devils at both ends of the pitch.
Casemiro’s exit will certainly leave a huge hole at the heart of the United squad, with Thuram arguably the perfect man to fill the void given his talents in attacking and defensive areas.
Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Frenchman could cost this summer, there’s no doubt that he would be a cheaper addition than the Newcastle talent.
At 25, he’s the perfect age to provide immediate quality, whilst also possessing the potential to improve further - which could massively help the club in their chances of returning to title glory.
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He's been in excellent form this season.