Manchester United are said to have enquired about a third midfield signing as they continue to ramp up their summer business. The Red Devils are close to announcing a £36million deal for Youri Tielemans, who will join from Aston Villa after his release clause was met.
That signing follows the £50million capture of Andrey Santos, adding much-needed strength and depth to the midfield, but there could yet be more.
While United are now likely to focus on other areas, with the defence in need of strengthening, while a winger signing could be sourced this summer, Michael Carrick may well add one more to the midfield.
Man Utd make enquiry over Oulai
Michael Carrick
According to journalist Nicolo Ceccarini, United have submitted an enquiry to Turkish club Trabzonspor over Christ Inao Oulai. It's claimed the enquiry was only 'gathering information' at this stage, with the Red Devils likely just finding out how much a deal would cost.
Carrick may well want a third midfielder this summer, but with £86million already spent on two midfielders, it's likely the third midfielder would likely be another affordable option worth less than £50million, rather than a marquee midfield signing.
Oulai is likely to fit into that bracket, only 20 years of age and likely to cost around £29.8million, according to recent reports. The Ivory Coast World Cup star is under contract until 2030, so there is no pressure for Trabzonspor to sell. Everton have also been linked with the midfielder this summer.
Oulai has other preferences
luis enrique psg
The bad news is that Oulai has a transfer preference, and it is not the Premier League. He said earlier this year: "Some people find it strange, but I like Ligue 1. I'm not attracted to the Premier League. I like Ligue 1!" he said with a smile, before naming his dream club. A club that makes me dream today? PSG. I like them. This new PSG plays really well."
Former striker Roger Boli has previously said of Oulai's talent: “He’s a young player with a high work rate, very active. He knows how to work hard and bring energy to his team. He’s like a great motivator, someone who brings a lot of energy. In short, he’s a very good player.”
Oulai also impressed at the African Cup of Nations, as well as the World Cup, and his form compared with his age makes him an inevitable target for Premier League clubs, even if he prefers a move elsewhere.
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