Manchester United reportedly is exploring an ambitious transfer move to bolster the midfield.
According to Defensa Central, one eye-catching story that will make the round is that United offered Kobbie Mainoo, trying to land Federico Valverde from Real Madrid, as they run Rounds.
Real Madrid appears to be stubbornly opposed, but the proposal points to how United are focusing on high caliber targets to rebuild its central engine.
United are said to appreciate Valverde and see him as a key midfield upgrade. Their offer reportedly includes 50 million euros (about £44 million), plus academy alumni Kobbie Mainoo as the make-up class for the deal.
Kobbie Mainoo has been struggling with Man United this season
Mainoo has struggled to start the season regularly under Ruben Amorim, and there is a suggestion that he is unhappy with the lack of consistent minutes.
However, Real Madrid reportedly views Valverde as the foundation of their current team.
The Uruguayan is said to have a bright future with the club, and perhaps even captaining it in the next few years, and Madrid doesn’t seem to want to entertain the deals involved.
In the case of Mainoo, this report adds another twist to what was already a complicated season.
Despite showing promising form in previous campaigns, he has found the first team opportunity so far limited under Amorim.
The possibility of being included in a swap bid may indicate that United is ready to consider letting go of him if it helps land players, like Valverde, they consider him more vital.
The Red Devils need to be added in the middle
Meanwhile, United’s midfield is under scrutiny. Casemiro reportedly enters its final season, with Manuel Ugarte linked to departures, and the club appears to be ahead of some major changes if Bruno Fernandez’s future is sometimes a subject of speculation.
If United truly considers Mainoo a negotiating tip, his path to normal playing time may require a tough decision.
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