Rio Ferdinand recommends three midfielders he considers ideal to partner Kobbie Mainoo after the Manchester United academy committed his future to the club.
Manchester United are planning to revamp the midfield department this summer.
The position has been overlooked by United for years, but Casemiro’s end-of-season exit has prompted the club to step up its search for replacements.
Manuel Ugarte is likely to leave United in the summer, too, further emphasising the need for midfield reinforcements.
Rio Ferdinand excited by links to Elliot Anderson, Aurelien Tchouameni and Carlos Baleba
It was announced on Thursday morning that Mainoo had signed a new contract to remain at Old Trafford for another five years.
Mainoo’s future would look different if it weren’t for Ruben Amorim’s sacking in January. The appointment of Michael Carrick as interim head coach saw the England international return to the line-up and warrant a new deal.
Now, United must continue their plans for the future in midfield. Who do they want to partner with Mainoo in the middle of the pitch?
Speaking on the latest episode of Rio Reacts, former United defender Rio Ferdinand names three midfield targets he would like to see signed by the Red Devils this summer.
Ferdinand namechecks Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni, and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.
When asked who would complement Mainoo best, Ferdinand said: “I think Anderson jumps off the page. Premier League experience, played for England in the national player as well, was going to play in the World Cup. Great energy, great legs, dynamic.
“I think whoever we bring in needs to be dynamic. That’s one of their traits that they have. You have to get around the pitch and can be aggressive. You’ve got to replace Casemiro. I’m not saying like-for-like, but I think those couple of traits are needed, and Anderson has that.
“I’m seeing Tchouameni being talked about. I think he’s a different type of player, very physical, capable to go into battle. Huge experience, unbelievable winning mentality. Plays for France, one of the favourites of the World Cup. That says enough. I’d be happy if I were them, too.
“I’m seeing Baleba come back into the shot again. I think he’s got undoubted ability. I still think there’s a lot of learning to do with him, but I wouldn’t say no to him either.”
Interestingly, Ferdinand didn’t mention Adam Wharton, with many at United considering the Crystal Palace star too similar to Mainoo.
Tchouameni remains a star player at Real Madrid, so signing the French star could prove difficult.
Meanwhile, United have been linked with Anderson throughout the season.
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- Rio Ferdinand would like Manchester United to sign Elliot Anderson, Aurelien Tchouameni or Carlos Baleba
- These are three players that Ferdinand considers ideal partners for Kobbie Mainoo
- Finding a partner for Mainoo becomes a priority after the young midfielder signed a new five-year deal
Man Utd unlikely to entertain mega-money Elliot Anderson chase
United are unlikely to get involved in a bidding war with Man City for Anderson.
According to ESPN, the £120m price tag has proved too off-putting for United, giving City a clear run at the former Newcastle ace.
United have money to spend this summer, but spending that amount on Anderson would be deemed excessive.
The report adds that United are planning to sign another midfielder, a left winger and possibly a centre-back or full-back.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/GOSmMHy