Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim wants INEOS to sign a new midfielder this summer to replace Christian Eriksen, who left upon the expiration of his contract.
Manuel Ugarte disappointed in the Premier League last season while Casemiro is not getting any younger. Ideally, the Red Devils need a deep-lying playmaker, who can add both steel and silk to the midfield.
Their search has taken them to Turkey, specifically to Galatasaray for Gabriel Sara, who impressed for the league champions in his debut campaign.
The Brazilian played all across the midfield, registering 10 assists in all competitions, while also getting on the scoresheet twice. His form saw his get described as a “proper baller” by Victor Osimhen, one of United’s top targets this window.
Gabriel Sara on United’s radar
He ranked in the 94th percentile for progressive carries, and in the 93rd percentile for progressive passes. Equally effective without the ball, the 26-year-old ranked in the 90th percentile for blocks (via fbref).
According to Turkish outlet Aksam, the 20-time English league champions are prepared to submit an opening offer worth €30 million for the Brazilian midfielder.
Galatasaray would ideally like to keep hold of him, considering he still has four years left on his deal, but are prepared to come to the negotiating table in case of a €35 million offer.
The Turkish side may not be in the strongest position to negotiate owing to the player’s wish of returning to England and playing in the English top-flight. He was once a Norwich City player, and would love to wear the red of United.
“Gabriel Sara is closing the book on Galatasaray. The 26-year-old Brazilian, who joined from English side Norwich City at the start of last season, had taken on the role of orchestra conductor in the midfield. Having garnered praise for his performances, Gabriel Sara is preparing to transfer to his arch-rival.
€30m opening bid in the pipeline
“Although Galatasaray is not keen on selling Gabriel Sara, many teams have made a move for the player. While the yellow-reds demand a transfer fee of at least 35 million for Gabriel Sara, the arch-rival is preparing to meet this price by pressing the button.
“Galatasaray may be parting ways with Gabriel Sara. Serious suitors have emerged for the Brazilian midfielder, with arch-rivals Manchester United now interested in the player, who had previously been linked with Premier League giants Manchester City.
“Man United is preparing to knock on Galatasaray’s door for Gabriel Sara, it has been learned that 30 million euros have been put aside for the 26-year-old footballer. On the other hand, it has been claimed that Gabriel Sara is keen on playing in the Premier League and could play for Manchester United in the new season.”
Whether INEOS have the money to seal the deal is doubtful. As per recent reports, following the Bryan Mbeumo deal, United will need to get players sales going in order to afford a new striker.
As previously relayed by The Peoples Person, a loan deal for a midfielder is the most likely outcome, and Juventus’ Douglas Luiz fits the bill more than Gabriel Sara, owing to his Premier League-proven pedigree and his availability on loan.
Feature image Ahmad Mora via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
