Man Utd news: Red Devils chasing Newcastle’s ‘long term’ target and United star ‘best player’ at WC

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar has concluded and Argentina took home the trophy but now the likes of Manchester United will be preparing tirelessly for their next competitive fixture against Burnley in the Carabao Cup. It was a successful tournament for several of United’s players, with one of them being named the ‘best player’ at the tournament, based on SofaScore’s ratings.

Additionally, with the January transfer window just around the corner, many breakout stars at the World Cup will be looking to secure a big money move. United have one of France’s wingers in their crosshairs, but are set to face stern competition to sign him.

Fernandes named as ‘best player’

Bruno Fernandes has been rated as the ‘best player’ at the World Cup, according to SofaScore, beating out the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Luka Modric and Lionel Messi. Overall, Fernandes accumulated a score of 8.38, despite Portugal crashing out in the quarter finals against Morocco.

Lionel Messi was in second place, with 8.27, while Wojciech Szczęsny came in third with 7.93. Kylian Mbappe, meanwhile, was all the way down in 7th with 7.61.

At the World Cup, Fernandes scored two goals and registered three assists. However, it is important to note that SofaScore’s rating system takes much more than this into account. Fernandes also completed the most defensive line breaks, crosses and sprints for Portugal at the tournament.

United weighing up move

United are considering making a move for French winger Marcus Thuram in January, according to HITC. The dynamic Borussia Mönchengladbach wide man failed to score a goal at the 2022 World Cup, but nonetheless impressed audiences with his physicality and ability on the ball - two attributes that would make him a perfect fit for the Premier League.

However, United aren’t the only team reported to be in pursuit of Thuram’s services. Moneybags Newcastle United have also been monitoring him ‘long term’ according to The Athletic.

At club level, Thuram has been a sensation this season. He has scored 13 goals and registered four assists across 17 games for Mönchengladbach so far this season. He has scored against some of the Bundesliga’s strongest teams in 2022/23, including Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.