Manchester United are battling for a place in the Champions League and appear to be closing in on a midfielder to help them achieve their goal of competing with their rivals.
The Red Devils have been slow to find their stride this season and with results not in the Old Trafford side’s favor, Ruben Amorim has had to face intense scrutiny and his fair share of criticism.
Still, a five-game unbeaten run in the Premier League before the international break was enough to restore confidence among hopeful fans, who understand the former Sporting manager is introducing a complex system that will take time to perfect.
With Lisandro Martinez returning to full fitness, Amorim was asked before the match against Everton whether the Argentine defender could be an unlikely solution for a breakthrough. However, he decided to ignore the idea that he could fill the empty hole in the engine compartment.
He said: “A smart, intelligent footballer can play in many positions, but it is not the right position for him. I feel that Lisha is close to being able to play. We have to be careful, but clearly he is in a better position.”
Going into January, Manchester United are likely to look for a long-term solution for Casemiro as he enters the twilight years of his career.
Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleva is a long-term target for the Red Devils, but his £115m valuation is likely to put an end to their pursuit of the Cameroon international.
That said, Manchester United and INEOS could go in different directions as they move closer to signing new talent from England’s top flight.
Manchester United advance contract talks with Joao Gomez from Wolves
Manchester United’s negotiations to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers star Joao Gomez have advanced in recent days, with the club aiming to conclude a deal worth around £44m in January, according to Trivera.
The Brazilian star’s long-term future at the club could become a cause for concern if Koby Mainu, who has provided the only assist in 15 games this season, joins the club.
5 players who look like Joao Gomez (FBRef) | |
Jaoui Cissé | rennes |
thomas party | Villarreal |
Elais Moriba | Celta Vigo |
my junior | Nantes |
kevin danish | Auxerre |
Rob Edwards wants the 24-year-old to remain in the West Midlands despite Wolves facing relegation to the Championship, and a move to Old Trafford could ease that issue if he seeks a new career challenge.
Described as an “all-giver” by Vitor Pereira, he would provide a young upgrade to some of Amorim’s current midfield forces, but it remains to be seen whether he can get a deal over the line once conditions open up.
