The Big Discussion: Manchester United's potential midfield signings
Man United target a new midfielder
Let's explore some of the options that they could sign to improve their squad before the transfer window closes.
Adrien Rabiot - Free agent
Rabiot, 29, is a free agent after leaving Juventus. The France international is reportedly interested in a move to the Premier League. He almost joined the Red Devils last season before signing a new one-year deal.
Liam, a Manchester United fan, told us: "This would be a great signing for us. On a free transfer, it would make complete sense. He has great experience and would be a fantastic partner for Mainoo in our midfield."
Manchester United are currently aiming to reduce their wage bill, so you could argue that It makes no sense to revive their interest in Rabiot. However, on a free transfer, you could make the case for the transfer to give the club more experience in the midfield.
Will United sign him this summer?
United's hopes of securing Rabiot's signature for a second consecutive summer seem to be fading. Recent reports indicate that Rabiot has decided to extend his stay at Juventus until 2024.
— AmericanRedDevils (@usareddevils) June 29, 2023
What are your thoughts on United's pursuit of Adrien Rabiot? Join the discussion! pic.twitter.com/U82NRMkr2T
Martin Zubimendi - Real Sociedad
By the end of last month, reports emerged from England and Spain stating that Manchester United had made a €60m (£51m) bid for Zubimendi, which would have triggered the release clause in his contract with Real Sociedad.
Although there is interest from Manchester United in the Spanish international, a potential deal is complicated by the midfielder's apparent desire to stay with Real Sociedad for at least one more season.
The 25-year-old scored four goals and provided one assist in 45 appearances for his club last season before playing a part in Spain's victory at the European Championship this summer.
Zubimendi has been with Real Sociedad since 2011 and has spent the last five years in the first team. However, it would be challenging for him to refuse a move to the 20-time English champions if the opportunity arises. United could also face competition from Liverpool for this signing.
The perfect fit for the upcoming season Martin Zubimendi 🥶 pic.twitter.com/3TzynoeL8d
— 𝙅𝙤𝙨𝙝𝙇𝙁𝘾 💫 (@JoshGLFC) August 6, 2024
Morten Hjulmand - Sporting Lisbon
It is rumoured that Hjulmand has garnered significant interest from Old Trafford, including from head coach Erik ten Hag. The Denmark international is seen as a potential midfield addition this summer.
The 25-year-old scored a stunning goal for his country in the Euro 2024 match against England. He was in impressive form for Sporting last season, scoring four goals and providing four assists in 49 appearances.
Manchester United are unlikely to meet his release clause of €80m (£67.4m). However, if Sporting are open to negotiations, it wouldn't be surprising to see the midfielder move to Old Trafford.
Hjulmand is known for his excellent passing and game-reading abilities, Hjulmand could be considered the perfect player to partner with Kobbie Mainoo in the Red Devils' midfield going forward.
Manuel Ugarte - PSG
It has been reported across Europe that United are switching the focus of their search to sign a new midfielder away from Manuel Ugarte and on to other candidates.
United had been exploring a deal for Ugarte but they do not intend to meet Paris Saint-Germain’s asking price, which is around the €60million (£51.4m) fee they paid to sign him from Sporting Lisbon in 2023.
Olivia Taylor, from Didsbury, told us: "For the money that PSG reportedly want for this signing, I'm not convinced this is a great move for the club. There are decent alternatives available for less money. The only way I'd be happy is if the signing is a loan move to start with no obligation to buy."
Premier League: Summer 2024 news and stories (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com)
