Manchester United identify three targets in transfer search for new defensive midfielder

Manchester United are keen on adding a holding midfielder in this summer’s transfer window, ManchesterWorld understands.

Casemiro has carried out that role over the last two seasons but struggled in the 2023/24 campaign and his future remains uncertain. As United continue their plans for the new season they have identified three possible additions in Manuel Ugarte, Martin Zubimendi and Sofyan Amrabat.

Reports last week suggested Ugarte has agreed personal terms with United as a deal edges closer for the Paris Saint-Germain star. The French champions may have already identified his replacement in Joao Neves, with PSG hoping to sign the teenager this summer. United are also interested in the Benfica midfielder but he is expected to fall outside their price range.

Zubimendi is another player who United hold an interest in. The Spaniard, who made three appearances at Euro 2024 this summer, played against United twice for Real Sociedad in the 2022/23 season.

As for Amrabat, the Moroccan made 30 appearances on loan at United last term and impressed in the final games of the campaign, playing the full 90 minutes in the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. Interestingly, Amrabat is still listed among United’s players on their website despite his loan from Fiorentina technically expiring at the end of June.

Adrien Rabiot is another midfielder United admire and they view the Frenchman as a low-cost option given he is currently a free agent. The 29-year-old is seen as a different profile to Ugarte, Zubimendi and Amrabat, while ManchesterWorld understands the club would ideally like to sign two midfielders this summer.

With finances tight there’s a need to balance the books and, to afford midfield arrivals, United would be willing to sell Casemiro, Hannibal and Scott McTominay. The latter has attracted interest from Fulham and West Ham United this summer.

United have secured the signings of Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro so far ahead of the new season, with the latter playing 45 minutes on Saturday in the 2-0 win over Rangers. Amad and Joe Hugill were on target for Erik ten Hag’s side, who will fly to the USA this week ahead of friendlies against Arsenal, Real Betis and Liverpool.