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The midfield has let down Erik ten Hag yet again and it is clear that Manchester United need to revamp the engine room moving forward.
Casemiro’s struggles have continued from last season and he does not look fit for purpose, especially in the big games and that is why the club spent big to sign Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain.
However, Erik ten Hag has warned the fanbase about expecting too much too soon from the Uruguayan. He is expected to make his debut against Southampton at the weekend.
But the manager’s options are pretty limited from thereon in with Kobbie Mainoo the only sureshot starter while Christian Eriksen’s time at the club is slowly coming to an end.
Midfield upgrade
Mason Mount remains injured and the club have not adequately replaced Scott McTominay and Sofyan Amrabat and that is why INEOS want to strengthen in the middle of the park next summer.
Multiple names have been linked with a move with Fichajes claiming the Red Devils are keeping a close eye on two young starlets — one from the Premier League and the other from the Championship.
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace and Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney are the two names mentioned in the report with both stars impressing in their respective teams.
Wharton, only 20, was a huge success upon his arrival at Selhurst Park and was even called up to the senior England team by Gareth Southgate.
Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Manchester City are also among the teams keeping an eye on Wharton. Palace will be looking at a minimum €70 million from his sale should it occur next summer.
Hackney, who is 22, has excelled for Michael Carrick’s team and the former United legend will know a thing or two about midfield maestros.
“The team from Old Trafford are fascinated by the quality of Adam Wharton (20 years old). A footballer who has already offered more than positive performances with Crystal Palace.
Two young stars being watched
“Also closely watched by Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Manchester City, his value could reach the staggering sum of €70 million. And it is a factor that could make the admirers of The Eagles’ pupil back off.
“At the same time, the Red Devils are keeping a close eye on the performance of Hayden Hackney (22 years old) with Middlesbrough. Despite being in the second division of English football, the midfielder has shown his ability to be decisive in midfield.”
Both fit INEOS’ profile of being young and English, and would certainly lift the quality in the middle of the park. But whether United can afford both remains to be seen.
Also with Toby Collyer tipped to make his breakthrough this season, maybe a more experienced name could be targeted. But the prospect of a Mainoo and Wharton midfield is certainly quite enticing.
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