Manchester United’s current transfer priorities have beaten Newcastle United to the signature of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesco. However, the Red Devils’ preseason performance continued to be a worrying trend since last season. Reuben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system is desperately needed to have an athletic midfielder to play alongside Bruno Fernandez.
Manuel Ugarte has rarely been convincing since his arrival of £50 million from Paris Saint-Germain last summer. Casemiro will turn 34 in February, and Kobbie Mainoo is more of a sophisticated option than a defensive one. United’s finances are tough, so it’s unlikely that attractive Premier Leagues like Carlos Valleva and Adam Wharton will beat the bank for proven options.
Express Sport is focusing on three worthy midfielders leveling up Amorim’s team ahead of a critical season at Old Trafford.
Hayden Hackney
The dive of Ipswichtown Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney looked like a major coup before consultations collapsed ahead of his medical care.
The 23-year-old is ready for Premier League football after being moved under Michael Carrick last season.
Hackney is a deep playmaker capable of progressive passes that split defense. He doesn’t own it, so it covers incredible ground.
He is almost perfectly suited to the energetic midfielder mold needed to effectively partner Fernandez, and will be available for £20 million unless Boro raises the asking price from the bid he has accepted from Ipswich.
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Lucien Agoume
Lucien Agoume will secure a bigger move faster than afterwards, and United will be wise to make sure Old Trafford is his next step after Sevilla.
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, the 23-year-old boasts physicality and loves tackling, but there is a bit of a reckless side to his game that he needs to shake off.
Agome lights up France at the Under-21 European Championships, previously linked to the transition to Arsenal.
United need a strong ball-winner who can pass and carry the ball. Agoume fits the bill and is reportedly valued at just £20 million.
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Laminkamara
Lamine Camara’s defensive instinct is the joy of seeing. He likes gambling and while the 3-4-3 system can cost him, he also has an impressive pace of recovery.
The 21-year-old continued to be a great form for Monaco, stealing the show when Senegal defeated England 3-1 at City Grounds earlier this year.
Kamala has a long, pinpoint pass to him, looking for a progressive ball rather than a safe ball for his teammate next to him. Fernandez, Brian Mbeumo, Matthew Cunha and Amado are nourished.
He still has developments, but at the reported price of £40 million, Kamala could prove to be a bargain if United are willing to shoot a punt.
