Manchester United struggled in the middle of the park last season under Ruben Amorim, especially in the Premier League.
Christian Eriksen was a fading force, and he has since departed upon the expiry of his current deal. Casemiro was a revelation in Europe, but not the same player in the English top-flight.
But the biggest disappointment was Manuel Ugarte, who struggled to impose himself in the red of United since his initial £42 million move from Paris Saint-Germain.
The Uruguayan, who looked a lot better in the Europa League, could not adapt to the physicality and relentless pace in England, while his passing left a lot to be desired.
Ugarte struggled
There have been murmurs that INEOS could look to cut their losses, but the head coach, who had worked with the defensive midfielder back in Sporting CP, still has trust that the South American will eventually come good.
But CaughtOffside have a different tale to tell. As per the outlet, the Red Devils have their eyes on Barcelona defensive midfielder Marc Casado.
Last season, he registered one goal and six assists while his pass completion rate stood at a high 92 percentile among all his midfield peers, which shows how comfortable he is with the ball at his feet.
Marc Casado also placed in the 91st percentile for tackles (via fbref), showing he can blend steel with silk as well.
Apart from the 20-time English league champions, Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with a move for the 21-year-old.
The Spaniard has a release clause worth €100 million but the Catalan giants would be open to a sale for around €50 million, even though their first preference would be to keep the player.
“Arsenal and Chelsea have both enquired about the possible signing of Barcelona defensive midfielder Marc Casado, sources have told CaughtOffside.
Marc Casado the replacement
“Well-placed figures with ties to the agents industry have provided CaughtOffside with information on Casado’s future this summer, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United all interested in the 21-year-old.
“Bayer Leverkusen also previously saw a bid rejected by Barcelona, who are keen to bag around €50m from the sale of Casado, though their preference is to keep the player.
“Ugarte only joined the Red Devils last summer, but CaughtOffside have been told that “Ruben Amorim sees Casado as an alternative to Ugarte”.”
Interestingly, Arsenal have already significantly strengthened in midfield, so a move to North London makes very little sense. There is no point is discussing Chelsea’s interest as they tend to sign anybody on the market without a clear plan.
Whether INEOS jump for the Barcelona ace, given his price tag, remains to be seen. For now, the co-owners seem intent on completing the Bryan Mbeumo deal first before moving on to their search for a striker.
Feature image Pedro Salado 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
