Erik ten Hag intensifies his efforts to sign a midfielder, which might give Manchester United an advantage in their pursuit of Brighton star Alexis MacAllister in the summer. Following the recent absences of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, the Red Devils were forced to revamp their system, something the Dutch manager hopes to avoid for the upcoming campaign.
Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo from Brighton are apparently on United's radar, but both players could fetch as much as £140 million. Money may be limited, especially if the Glazer family objects to a prospective purchase of the club, because United is also interested in a star striker like Harry Kane or Victor Osimhen for Ten Hag.
Ten Hag allegedly listed midfield as an area to focus on strengthening this summer, along with adding a new striker, so trading off one of United's players might help offset a hefty price tag. The loss of either Caicedo or Mac Allister would leave Brighton lacking in the middle of the field, and they would almost surely try to add more midfielders.
They might be losing a playmaker and an all-around midfielder, but if United offered Scott McTominay in exchange for the two, the pain might be lessened. Following the acquisitions of Casemiro and Eriksen, the Scot has been linked with a move away from the club due to his decline in the team's hierarchy.
Despite scoring in the 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday, the 26-year-old's playing time would probably be further cut if any of the Brighton players moved to Old Trafford.
According to rumors, he has been placed on the cutting edge because Casemiro, Eriksen, Fred, possibly Caicedo or Mac Allister, and even Marcel Sabitzer, if the Red Devils decide to sign the Austrian on a permanent basis, are all choices for United's midfield.
McTominay may think about leaving Old Trafford due to a potential shortage of midfielders, and Newcastle might be a viable destination. According to sources, United has reportedly set an asking price of £50 million for the Scotland international, which might put Eddie Howe's team off guard and give Brighton the opportunity.
His most recent performances for his nation demonstrate that he is also a capable goalscorer, which may appeal to Brigthon.
McTominay may want to play frequently, which seems doubtful at United given that he has only made 10 Premier League starts so far this year. If Caicedo and Mac Allister eventually transfer, he would also have the opportunity to spend time working with De Zerbi, who has revolutionized English football, and Brighton would gain the required midfield reinforcements.
Casemiro's place under threat
If the rumors about Manchester United's transfer objectives are accurate, this summer appears to be one of significant investment and an exciting time for supporters.
At least two significant acquisitions are anticipated from Erik ten Hag, with a world-class goal scorer and a ball-playing No. 8 at the top of the list. Given the unclear futures of the existing center-back and right-back, the Dutchman is open to making improvements around the team, with a new center-back and right-back being a possibility.
Particularly in midfield, where everyone from Jude Bellingham to James Ward-Prowse has apparently attracted interest, United appears to have cast a broad net. Moises Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton and Hove Albion were added to that list by the Telegraph on Sunday morning.
Along with Pascal Groß, the two have established one of the best midfield combinations in the league this year. Caicedo sweeps up everything in his path, allowing World Cup champion Mac Allister to advance the ball forward and create opportunities.
Ten Hag may be considering more than one midfield addition based on two very distinct profiles, but a double-swoop will be difficult given that Brighton will require at least £70 million for each player, according to the source. Both signed new contracts this year, and the south coast club has consistently resisted advances from the league's top players.
Ten Hag would probably have to choose which Seagull he wants to hunt down, and given how his team is struggling without Casemiro, Caicedo should be the target.
Due to seeing red, the United midfielder is currently facing a second suspension, this one for four games after a three-match absence in February. Despite Ten Hag's assurances to the media to the contrary, there was a noticeable decline in midfield quality in both sessions.
Bruno Fernandes slid into a deeper role against Everton and performed admirably, but it is unclear whether the Portuguese playmaker could carry out a similar role against strong teams. He fared well against Brentford, despite Thomas Frank's team playing passively out of character.
Casemiro is 31 years old, making it unlikely that he will continue to play for Manchester United for many years to come. His absence this season is evidence that Ten Hag needs to find other choices. The only cover available right now is Scott McTominay, and even he might go before the summer.
In contrast, Fernandes has consistently been a part of the United lineup, as has Christian Eriksen up until a fluke ankle injury brought on by a hazardous tackle. United does require protection for the two, but Casemiro's rivals must come first.
When United plays Brighton twice in the upcoming month, many people will be watching Caicedo and Mac Allister, not least United's scouting staff. Both games will be seen by those in charge at the AMEX as having a double-edged sword; they need their stars to perform but are aware that will only enhance interest.
No matter who owns the club once the transfer market begins, United's budget for signing new players this summer won't be limitless. Ten Hag will need to narrow down his short list, and Caicedo ought to be the Brighton midfielder chosen if there is only room for one.
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