Manchester United have been advised that Real Madrid star Federico Valverde would represent the perfect midfield signing this summer. The Red Devils are anticipated to have a busy transfer window over the coming months, with a string of players already being linked with moves to Old Trafford.
Midfield targets for United
Michael Carrick and his backroom staff will have one eye on the forthcoming Premier League campaign, while remaining focused on assembling a squad capable of challenging upon their return to the Champions League.
Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has emerged as a prominent transfer target for United this summer, as the club seeks to shore up their midfield following Casemiro's exit.
United have also struck an agreement to bring in Atalanta's Ederson, with an initial fee of £35 million plus an additional £3.8 million in add-ons close to being finalised.
Anderson chase complicated
While Anderson has attracted United's attention, it is Manchester City who have been frontrunners in the race to land the England international this summer.
City saw a bid rejected for Anderson, which included a verbal proposal of £106 million plus a further £15 million potential add-ons, leaving the former Newcastle man's future still uncertain.
As a result, United are now expected to look at alternative midfield options and it remains unclear which players might be next through the door at Old Trafford.
Saha backs Valverde
Amid the uncertainty, former United striker Louis Saha has outlined why Valverde could prove an ideal alternative to Anderson.
“Man Utd need a balanced midfield,” Saha told Compare.bet. “You already have Kobbie Mainoo, who is a top player and seems to grow with confidence, but I still think we need something a bit more experienced, a bit more aggressive, and with a bit more 'legs' that could represent that dominance in midfield. It's extremely important.
“Federico Valverde would be everything the club needs. For any team to challenge for the Premier League title, you need a top level centre midfielder.
“They need to be aggressive and show leadership at the same time to really dominate in that midfield. That experience can't be replaced by youth and talent.
“That has been represented by Casemiro. He's not maybe the perfect player, but in this position, he's one of the best. And definitely, if United want to compete, they need that.”
