Manchester United suffered defeat to Leeds United and one of Michael Carrick’s biggest problems was that his midfield was being overrun.
With Kobbie Mainoo out injured, Michael Carrick handed a first start to Manuel Ugarte in Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat to Leeds United.
Old Trafford was rocked within 30 minutes by a Noah Okafor brace, and Leeds were completely dominating the midfield match-up.
Casemiro was excellent once again, but Ao Tanaka was running the show for Leeds, and the Japan international is exactly what the Red Devils have been crying out for.
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Ao Tanaka just proved he should be a Man Utd target
United are planning an overhaul of their midfield department in the summer, with Ineos expected to make two midfield signings as a bare minimum.
A long-term Casemiro replacement is needed, but United also need a well-rounded midfielder to compete with Mainoo for a starting spot.
As per SofaScore, Tanaka earned a 7.7 rating for his performance at Old Trafford. The only outfield Leeds player rated higher was goalscorer Okafor.
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Tanaka was a creative outlet for his side, completing four key passes. Only Bruno Fernandes completed more (5).
But the Japanese midfielder also completed 100% of his dribbles, made six defensive contributions and won 75% of his duels (3/4).
Did Man Utd deserve more against Leeds – or was a defeat the right result?
Are you taking any positives away from the loss?
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Why Ao Tanaka fits Ineos strategy at Man United
Since the takeover, Ineos have had success with Premier League signings, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha able to easily adapt to life at Old Trafford.
Tanaka has Premier League experience and is the right style of midfield profile that Ineos are looking for.
Tanaka was signed for £3.3 million and he has two years remaining on his Leeds contract. If United wanted, they could table a very appealing offer for the midfielder this summer.
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At 27 years old, Tanaka is in his prime, and he proved at Old Trafford that he can perform on the biggest stages.
While he wouldn’t necessarily be the first-team signing that fans are dreaming of, he would offer much better depth and quality than is currently in United’s midfield.
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