If Manchester United had the chance to lay their hands on a N’Golo Kante-like midfielder, few would argue they should hesitate. They should not overthink it; they should act.
Well, that chance is here, and it is arriving in the form of Lucien Aguome.
Aguome stands out as one of the most promising defensive midfielders emerging from the Spanish football scene.
His composure, ball-winning ability, and tactical awareness at the heart of Sevilla’s midfield have earned him the label of “next N’Golo Kante.”
Premier League interest beginning to build
According to recent reports from Spain, Fichajes claim Brighton & Hove Albion and Arsenal are preparing to battle for Aguome, revealing:
“What seems clear is that the Frenchman is facing the most important opportunity of his career, and both the Amex Stadium and the Emirates consider him a strategic reinforcement for the future.”
Summer interest that fizzled
Arsenal eyed him last summer as a potential replacement for Thomas Partey but did not pursue the move.
INEOS also considered him as an alternative to Carlos Baleba, but passed. They are certainly regretting not securing a Baleba alternative altogether.
United’s midfield has struggled, and while Amorim must find a way to cope until January, the winter transfer window has to deliver him a reliable midfield anchor.
So, in the hunt for reinforcements, one wonders why United are not already all over the Aguome deal.
If INEOS had doubts about the 23-year-old last summer, he is surely proving them wrong.
According to Sofascore, Aguome is currently averaging five recoveries, five aerial duels, and three tackles per game, numbers that scream grit and reliability, exactly what United’s midfield has lacked.
Arsenal may be reviving their interest, upon realising they missed a trick by not signing him when they had the chance.
Brighton, meanwhile, probably see shades of Moises Caicedo and Baleba in him, which explains why they are ready to go to war for his signature.
A £20 million opportunity
Aguome is reportedly available for £20 million, according to Fichajes, who add:
“Sevilla FC, facing financial pressures, are considering his sale as a way to balance the books.”
United would be wise to pounce on this opportunity.
With other midfield targets, such as Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Elliot Anderson, commanding hefty fees, Aguome could represent smart business in January.
Arsenal’s midfield is already stacked, and Aguome would surely struggle for minutes there.
Brighton may offer a clear path to regular football, but the allure of playing a key role at Old Trafford should be far more tempting. The former Inter Milan man ought to see it as the next step in his career.
Transfer hope for United
Ultimately, the Aguome race is one United can win, but only if they act swiftly.
There is hope for the 20-time English champions, as Fichajes note:
“Agoume’s decision may hinge on how quickly each club moves.”
Obviously, the midfielder is waiting to be convinced, something INEOS can absolutely do to jump ahead in the queue.
Everyone knows Amorim could use a Kante in his midfield. So they should not let one slip through their fingers.
Feature image Fran Santiago via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
