Manchester United interim boss Michael Carrick has pinpointed that midfield area as one which the Red Devils’ recruitment team must give absolute priority when considering reinforcements in the summer transfer window.
United will part ways with experienced Brazilian midfield general Casemiro at the end of the ongoing season. The former Real Madrid man is in the final months of his current deal at Old Trafford.
Despite his consistent performances this season, Man United passed up the option of extending Casemiro’s stay for a further year, opting to let go of the Brazil international in order to offload his hefty pay package from their wage bill.
Looking ahead to next season, Carrick, who may or may not be in charge at Old Trafford, is fully aware of the need to recruit a suitable replacement for Casemiro when the summer transfer window opens.
“Listen, it’s an important position, I think,” he said, per Sports Illustrated. “I’m not being biased, obviously, as being in midfield, but I think it is an important position to try and tie everything together, and you’re connected to the whole team.
“And that’s sometimes emotionally, a little bit mentally, and showing that composure and understanding of the game a little bit, and Cas has had a big influence within the group on that, so something we’re fully aware of moving forward for sure.”
Manchester United’s midfield targets
With the current situation of their midfield and Casemiro’s imminent departure, Manchester United are expected to spend heavily on rebuilding that part of their squad this summer.
The Red Devils already have a well-documented interest in several Premier League proven options, including the likes of Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.
According to TeamTalk, Man United have now also added Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana to their wishlist as they continue to explore several options in search of a perfect fit for both their budget and sporting project.
Man United’s recruitment strategy in this summer’s transfer window will be interesting to see.
One thing that’s certain at this point is that the Red Devils must be ready to part with significant sums, as none of the aforementioned targets will come cheap.
