It has been revealed that Manchester United may focus their attention on a more defensive-minded midfielder in the summer transfer window.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has long been linked with moves for English stars Jack Grealish and James Maddison as he looks to bolster his creative options.
But according to reliable journalist David Ornstein, the club could be targeting a different type of midfielder.
Ornstein revealed an interesting update on United’s transfer plans in a recent Q and A session with the Athletic.
“Some contacts tell me United are not in for Grealish and are focusing more on a holding midfielder than his kind of position,” he said.
Solskjaer may already feel he has adequate attacking midfield options in new signing Bruno Fernandes and Juan Mata.
Therefore, we decided to look at three defensive midfielders the Norwegian could focus his attention on this summer.
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Thomas Partey
The dream signing for most United fans in defensive midfield. Supporters were given a glimpse of Partey’s talents when Atletico Madrid recently knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League.
The 26-year-old is in his prime and can thrive in a box-to-box role as well as holding midfield. He is exceptional on the ball as well as aggressive in the tackle.
But as noted by the Mirror, Partey could be about to end any hopes in signing him by agreeing a new contract to remain at Diego Simeone’s side in the Spanish capital.
Wilfred Ndidi
Ndidi has been imperative in Leicester City’s surge into the top four this season. He is a mainstay in Brendan Rodgers’ side when fit and plays a crucial role in allowing the likes of Maddison and Youri Tielemans to excel in attacking transition.
The Nigerian international is dominant in the air and a great reader of play. And at 23, he is at the perfect age to make an impact in Solskjaer’s long-term Old Trafford rebuild.
However, Leicesters’ reluctance to sell Maguire at anything below £80m is a sign that Ndidi will not come cheap, regardless of the financial uncertainty around the coronavirus pandemic. United would have to pay a ridiculous amount to secure the services of one of the most talent players in his position.
Ruben Neves
Neves is undoubtedly one of the most talented midfielders in the Premier League. The Portuguese youngster has taught his United counterparts a footballing lesson on more than one occasion and still has the potential to rise right to the top.
The 23-year-old is a crucial part of Nuno Espirito Santo’s assemble at Wolves, but could feel it is time to take the next step in his career.
Signing a ball-playing midfielder of Neves’ quality would be a huge coup for Solskjaer as he looks to accelerate his rebuild at the club.