Michael Carrick has been confirmed as Manchester United's new permanent manager, and the club has hit the ground running in what is set to be a bustling summer. While much of the football world has its eyes on the World Cup, behind-the-scenes preparations are in full swing ahead of a crucial season. Carrick is eager to bolster his squad as they gear up to add Champions League football to their calendar. The midfield is a key area for reinforcement following Casemiro's exit, and progress is already underway, with United securing a deal to sign Atalanta's Ederson.
Additional midfield recruits are anticipated. United have shown interest in Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, who has received two bids from Manchester City. The 23-year-old is set to play a significant role for England at the World Cup as the battle heats up. Here's a round-up of the latest news from Old Trafford.
United 'Interested' in Casado
According to Spanish reports, United are keen on defensive midfielder Marc Casado, Barcelona team-mate of Marcus Rashford. As the Catalans continue to hesitate over whether to make Rashford's loan move permanent, United are reportedly keeping tabs on the midfielder, reports the Mirror. Casado was on Chelsea's radar last summer but chose to stay and fight for his place at Barca. However, after playing a limited role under Hansi Flick, he is looking to move on.
Mundo Deportivo claims United, plus clubs in Spain, including Atletico Madrid, and the Middle East, are interested in the 22-year-old Spain star. He would represent a more affordable alternative than Mateus Fernandes, who carries a price tag of around £80m. Casado, who has two years remaining on his deal, could potentially be secured for less than half that sum.
Valencia's Carrick Plea
Former Old Trafford favourite Antonio Valencia has made a come-and-get-me plea to Carrick. Valencia, who lined up alongside Carrick during his decade at United, is currently working at the World Cup as a pundit for Telemundo Deportes. When quizzed about whether he would fancy linking up with Carrick, the 40-year-old, who departed United in 2019, said: "Yes, I would go back. Manchester United is a club that gave me so much. My family was very happy there. I would work for Manchester United in any role, out of passion. It is a club I love a lot. I think everything they are doing is going well. But if they called me, I would go running."
Valencia took the opportunity to congratulate his mate when he was handed the permanent role. He said: "I sent him a message wishing him success. Carrick is someone I respect and care about a lot. I wished him success as a coach, and I think it has gone well for him. Things have worked out, and it makes me happy that he is going into another season on the bench."
