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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag decided to bring back Christian Eriksen into the first team for the game against Southampton and the Dane has now started four games in a row.
His passing range remains impressive as usual and the former Tottenham Hotspur star has also netted three goals while registering one assist during this time.
However, it was his mistake that allowed FC Twente to equalise on Wednesday and after a run of four back-to-back games, the manager could be forced to rotate considering his age and the fact that he usually struggles in the big games due to a lack of pace.
Kobbie Mainoo’s emergence was what caused the manager to increasingly look past the 32-year-old last season, despite the Denmark international’s complaints to the former Ajax coach.
United need another midfielder
And despite the improved displays, his time in Manchester is expected to end at the conclusion of the current campaign as his deal expires in 2025.
The Red Devils are on the lookout for a passmaster, someone who can control the tempo of the game while also possessing a goal threat.
There have been recent links with Inter Milan ace Nicolo Barella, who is also wanted by arch-rivals Manchester City and as per Inter Live, United have devised a sure-shot plan at acquiring the Italian ahead of their cross-town rivals.
The 27-year-old, who recently signed a contract extension until 2029, is valued at €80 million as per Transfermarkt and the 20-time English league champions are looking at a cash-plus-player deal to land the Italy international.
The team from Old Trafford are ready to offer €50 million along with Ten Hag favourite Diogo Dalot, who could fit nicely with Inter’s plans as Denzel Dumfries’ future still lies away from the San Siro despite talks of a new contract.
“The pillar of Inter would be one of the market dreams of the Red Devils who hope to beat the competition from Guardiola’s Manchester City in the summer of 2025. Barella is liked and a lot, but an investment of a certain caliber would be needed to convince – first and foremost – Beppe Marotta.
Player-plus-cash deal
“The English club could satisfy the request of 75 million euros – minimum – made by Inter. A figure close to 50 million euros could end up on the table, plus the card of the former AC Milan player Diogo Dalot. The Portuguese would represent an excellent possibility in view of Dumfries’ possible summer farewell.”
Dalot, who has been ever-present in the team this season, has prior experience of playing in the Serie A, during his loan spell with rivals AC Milan and could be a great addition to Inter’s already impressive lineup.
If United actually end up sacking Ten Hag and bringing in Simone Inzaghi from the Nerazzurri, things could get really interesting.
But it is unlikely that United will move on the Portuguese considering his versatility and performance levels. And Barella is unlikely to move unless a record sum is paid. So, take this report with a hefty pinch of salt for now.
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