Manchester United’s massive budget for strengthening the midfield has been revealed as summer transfer plans start to take shape.
Midfield rebuild
Heading into the upcoming window, United are expected to prioritise strengthening the middle of the park ahead of other areas of the pitch.
In January, Casemiro confirmed that he will depart Old Trafford at the end of the season, once his contract expires. His brilliant form under Michael Carrick has sparked calls for him to stay for at least another year but a U-turn is not expected at this stage.
There is also uncertainty over the future of Manuel Ugarte, whose time at United increasingly looks like it has come to an end. The Uruguayan has struggled to make an impact since making the switch from Paris Saint-Germain and there is a very good chance he will be moved on.
These two factors, combined with the need to find ideal partners for Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, only make United’s need for midfield signings more urgent.
United continue to be linked with a host of players including Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Sandro Tonali (Newcastle), Carlos Baleba (Brighton & Hove Albion), Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest) and Ederson (Atalanta).
Sunday’s 3-2 win over Liverpool clinched Champions League football for United, securing a bigger transfer budget and making them a far more attractive option in the market.
According to the Daily Mail, United are prepared to fork out as much as £150million on midfielders alone.
Jaw-dropping investment
The news outlet claims that United are ready to spend up to £150million on three brand new midfielders.
“Daily Mail Sport understands that United have earmarked around £80m for a marquee signing to replace Casemiro, who will leave at the end of his contract despite hopes among some fans that he could extend his stay at Old Trafford.”
“United are prepared to spend around £40m on another midfielder to replace Manuel Ugarte if they can get a reasonable price for the Uruguayan who cost £50m from Paris Saint-Germain two years ago.”
“Despite tying Kobbie Mainoo to a new long-term contract, United could strengthen their squad by signing a third midfielder for about £20m. It’s understood that scouts have been monitoring the progress of Southampton’s Shea Charles.”
Chris Wheeler explains that this is dependent on how much money is available, with United also keen on improving at left-wing, left-back, central defence and a back-up goalkeeper.
The 20-time English champions hope to generate more funds from the sales of Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford, Andre Onana and Ugarte. Joshua Zirkzee could also be offloaded amidst his struggles for playing time.
In addition to Casemiro, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia are also set to be released as free agents.
Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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