Manchester United’s pursuit of a player has been hijacked by a Premier League rival, meaning their search for a midfielder goes on.
Manchester United have added Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui to their squad, but Erik ten Hag is still looking to strengthen the holding midfielder position.
Uruguayan Manuel Ugarte has been the top target for United this summer. However, they have yet to meet Paris Saint-Germain’s asking price. As a result, alternative options have been considered, including former loanee Sofyan Amrabat and Burnley’s Sander Berge.
According to the Daily Mail, United’s bid for Berge was rejected by Burnley as it did not meet their £30 million asking price. It now appears United have missed out on Berge, who is set to join Fulham for an initial £20 million, plus an additional £5 million in add-ons. The Norwegian midfielder is expected to travel to London for a medical on Tuesday after agreeing on personal terms.
This move will likely end Fulham’s interest in United’s Scott McTominay, whom United are willing to sell if he expresses a desire to leave Old Trafford.
United’s search for a holding midfielder continues, a position that proved problematic last season. Casemiro, who joined from Real Madrid for £70 million, had a strong 2022-23 season but struggled with form and fitness last year. Casemiro and young talent Kobbie Mainoo started in the holding roles during United’s Premier League opener against Fulham, but options remain limited, with Ten Hag currently lacking a dedicated holding midfielder.
