Manchester United suffered their first defeat to League Two opponents in EFL Cup history on Wednesday as Grimsby Town beat them 12-11 via penalties after the game was locked 2-2 at the end of regulation time.
The result made it clear that a lot of deadwood still needed to be removed, with the midfield in particular looking poor both with and without the ball.
Manuel Ugarte was subbed off at half-time, and he looks like one of the worst buys in the club’s recent history. His form since last season makes it difficult to understand how INEOS spent an initial £42 million on him.
Which is why Casemiro has kept his place in the starting lineup during Premier League matches. Even the Brazilian looks well off the pace, and needs an upgrade soon once he does leave.
Midfielder required urgently
Kobbie Mainoo is not seen as someone who can play as the defensive midfielder in Ruben Amorim’s system, which is why Carlos Baleba has been identified as the perfect signing.
The 20-time English league champions had expressed interest, and even a bid was planned after the Portuguese tactician demanded his signing.
But Brighton’s asking price meant INEOS ultimately stayed away, but following their dismal displays this season, there has been renewed talks of an approach.
Baleba unlikely
But Seagulls boss Fabian Hurzeler has poured cold water on rumours when he was asked whether the Cameroonian would be departing should United come in with a last-minute offer.
“Yes I am 100% confident (of Baleba staying). If there was a number more than 100, I would say more than 100, I’m confident,” he said during a press conference.
With Alejandro Garnacho sealing a move to Chelsea, INEOS are expected to prioritise a new midfielder and goalie.
Hopefully, they have a backup plan in mind should the Brighton ace and Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace not agree to a move this summer.
Angelo Stiller has been earmarked as a possible alternative, but skillsets make him more suited to the No.8 role as compared to the defensive midfield position. An interesting end to the window awaits the club.
Feature image Mike Hewitt 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
