United back in for “one of the best CMs in the PL” as 24-yo dreams of joining a “world-class club” – report

The midfield will sit firmly at the top of INEOS’ agenda as Manchester United prepare to bolster their squad this summer. Over the past seven years, the Red Devils have brought in only two central midfielders, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, a disappointing record that underlines the neglect of the centre of the pitch. United cannot afford to overlook the urgent need to inject more quality into their engine room, which is clearly not at the required level. Fortunately, there are already clear signs that United are lining up astute moves to bring some of the finest midfielders to M16. Return for Onana One such midfielder who could make the switch is Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana. The Belgian, who recently hinted he would love to join a “world-class club,” is firmly back on United’s radar. Two years after missing out on his services, when he chose Villa instead, United now feel it is time to prise him away from the West Midlands. Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke reports: “United’s long-term interest, dating back to his time at Everton, could see them make a fresh move for the midfielder should they miss out on other key targets.” Onana not cheap Even though Onana has been identified as a brilliant option, he will not come cheaply. O’Rourke admits: “However, it could be difficult to land Onana as he joined Aston Villa for £50million in 2024, and they will be looking to make a profit from his sale.” Villa, currently sitting third in the Premier League, have seen Onana become a vital cog in their system, and his performances have drawn so much praise. The perfect Casemiro heir For Villa, Onana has been instrumental in breaking up play with his relentless tackling, interceptions, and recoveries. But that is not all: he has also been contributing with his aerial dominance in the opposition box, scoring crucial goals. These qualities make him the ideal heir to Casemiro, who is set to leave Manchester this summer. Arguably the most physically imposing midfielder in the Premier League right now, Onana could provide the bite and steel United so desperately crave. His arrival would significantly elevate this United side, making them not only stronger but also far more intimidating to their rivals. Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.