Manchester United are assessing midfield options as the club’s mission to re-shape the squad continues.
New sporting director Dan Ashworth says Manchester United’s new leadership team ‘will not rest’ in their mission to take the club back to the very top.
There have been encouraging early signs in the transfer window, with deals secured for Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, two highly talented rising stars.
Now, the club are looking at midfielders, with six names prominently linked to Manchester United in recent days.
- READ MORE: Manchester United confirmed signings, transfers in, out, loan exits, releases for 2024/25
How Martin Zubimendi interest has been received in Spain
One of the players linked with a move to Manchester United is Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
The Euro 2024 winner is an alternative to Manuel Ugarte, and in the same price range, Goal report. He has a release clause at 60 million Euros.
Spanish newspaper AS has been covering Manchester United’s interest in the 25-year-old midfielder, and have a key takeaway.
Referencing the desire to sign one of either Ugarte or Zubimendi, the outlet contends that the moves speak to United’s ambition.
It reads: “What is clear is that Erik Ten Hag is not beating around the bush and wants to put together a competitive squad that is capable of competing for titles again with the Premier League’s biggest clubs.”
United finished a lowly eighth in the Premier League last season amid an injury-hit campaign.
With that in mind, finishing in the top four in 2024/25 would represent progress, and achieving Champions League football for 2025/26.
But that alone is not enough, it’s not where Manchester United aspire to be. United want to be challenging for titles, and winning titles. Not just the odd domestic cup.
Ashworth wants to provide the tools for success
A large part of Manchester United success will be left down to Erik ten Hag himself, and whether the manager can deliver.
The other side, is giving Ten Hag the right tools to do so. And the crucial work is ongoing now.
Ashworth explained: “It’s my job, together with Jason [Wilcox], to create the right support structures and environment around Erik, the staff and players to make that possible.
“Already, I can feel a strong sense of energy and determination around the group, as the players and staff return fresh from their breaks, including some exciting new additions to the squad, and to the coaching team.”
Making a move for Martin Zubimendi, or Manuel Ugarte, would further underlined United’s commitment to climbing back to the top. These are two high quality international players with their peak years ahead of them.
Kobbie Mainoo is a wondrous addition to United’s midfield, but it is an essential mission for Ineos to strengthen around him and lighten the load.
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