Man Utd Transfer News: Can Amorim Fix Midfield Woes with a £105m Move?

Manchester United’s recent stumble against a ten-man Everton highlighted some persistent issues. The loss curtailed their five-game unbeaten run. Now, all eyes are on how Ruben Amorim responds. A tough away match against Crystal Palace looms, and whispers of a major midfield signing are circulating.

Injuries aren’t helping. Amorim confirmed that key players like Harry Maguire, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko will miss the Crystal Palace match. That impacts squad depth and tactical options.
>

The core problem seems to be in midfield. United’s failure to secure a midfield addition this summer, despite the funds splashed on attacking players, now appears shortsighted. They reportedly balked at Brighton’s Carlos Baleba’s £104 million price tag. It’s a substantial sum, yes, but perhaps a necessary investment given the current landscape.

Currently, Casemiro is aging, and Manuel Ugarte is struggling to adapt to the Premier League’s demands. Amorim faces a genuine puzzle to solve in the middle of the pitch.

Enter Federico Valverde. Rumors suggest Amorim is preparing a £105 million bid for the Real Madrid midfielder. Valverde is an established player. He boasts significant experience with Los Blancos, and is only 27.
>

That said, the reports also mention Valverde’s alleged unhappiness under Xabi Alonso. Since October Alonso has deployed the Uruguayan at right-back due to injuries. A player of Valverde’s quality wants to play in his best position, central midfield. It makes you think there might be some truth to the stories.

Still, big-money signings always carry risk. Will Valverde adapt to the Premier League? Can he recapture his best form in a new environment? These are the questions United’s board must consider.

It’s worth pointing out that Amorim’s tactics have come under scrutiny. His favored 3-4-3 formation has drawn criticism. Critics, like Gary Neville, questioned using Luke Shaw as a left center-back in the defeat to Everton, given Shaw’s traditional role on the left.

Interestingly, Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has defended Amorim’s approach. He recognizes the system boosts United’s attacking prowess. Glasner’s Crystal Palace also employs a 3-4-3, setting up an intriguing tactical battle.

Glasner remarked that United have the highest expected goals (xG) in the Premier League. He noted the club’s heavy investment in attackers, acquiring three players upfront. “They needed more goals and they invested £200m, buying three players up front.” He also stated, “Also, now they have players who can play very intense like [Bryan] Mbeumo. For me, it’s impressive to see.”

The upcoming clash with Crystal Palace could prove pivotal for Amorim. The club requires a result to alleviate some of the mounting pressure. Performances must improve, and quickly.

The manager stated that “Sesko is going to take a little bit more time, [Harry] Maguire again the same.”

So, what do we make of all this? On one hand, United need midfield reinforcements. Valverde ticks many boxes. On the other, the price is astronomical, and adaptation is never guaranteed.

From my perspective, this saga highlights a broader trend. Premier League clubs are increasingly willing to spend exorbitant sums on established stars. The pressure to compete at the highest level dictates these decisions.

Whether Valverde arrives at Old Trafford remains to be seen. This pursuit says a lot about Manchester United’s ambition, and the considerable challenges Ruben Amorim faces as he tries to reshape the squad. It’s going to be a fascinating January transfer window, that’s for sure. Will Man Utd sign Federico Valverde? Time will tell.

Read Original

Keywords: Man Utd transfer news, Ruben Amorim, Federico Valverde, Manchester United midfield, Premier League transfers, Crystal Palace match, Man Utd injuries, January transfer window