Manchester United have been urged to consider Paris Saint-Germain's Warren Zaire-Emery as their next midfield signing this summer. The Red Devils have made strengthening their midfield a priority and are closing in on a deal for Atalanta's Ederson. An agreement has been reached with the Italian club, but Old Trafford officials are keen to add more than one player to their squad.
Zaire-Emery's Profile
Zaire-Emery, still only 20 years old but nearing 200 first-team appearances, has just won his second Champions League winners' medal with PSG. However, the Parisian side boasts a very settled midfield, making it difficult for the young Frenchman to secure regular game time. Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Fabian Ruiz have formed a formidable midfield trio, and if Zaire-Emery seeks a new challenge, United and Michael Carrick have been suggested as an ideal destination. Carrick, who recently took over as United's head coach on a permanent basis, played the same position during his illustrious career.
Frank Leboeuf's Endorsement
World Cup winner Frank Leboeuf has backed the potential move. “I think that would be a great signing for Manchester United, but he will need players around him to succeed,” Leboeuf said. “I’m very fond of Michael Carrick and the job he did for Manchester United, and he was playing in the position of Zaire-Emery. So I’m pretty sure he would give him great advice to improve. It could be a great move for him. Zaire-Emery is a warrior. He’s going to sacrifice himself for the team he plays for. That’s for sure. Will he be ready? I’m not sure yet.”
Leboeuf added: “He had a strange season. He finished it well, but he struggled for the first six months. That’s why he didn’t play most games. Maybe because he was wondering if he should stay or not.”
United's Midfield Situation
United have already seen Casemiro depart Old Trafford, with the club opting not to renew his contract. The Brazilian had rediscovered his form under Carrick, but age was a factor, and he was allowed to move on. Manuel Ugarte is another midfielder the club is willing to listen to offers for, which would further increase the need to bolster options. Kobbie Mainoo has enjoyed a resurgence under Carrick and has re-established himself in the first team.
Other Targets
United have been monitoring several Premier League midfielders, including Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Sandro Tonali, but they could still look abroad for another signing in that area. The club's recruitment team continues to assess the market as they aim to strengthen the squad ahead of the new season.
