Manchester United’s midfield limitations were shown up in the draw at Southampton.
All summer United fans have been calling for an upgrade on Nemanja Matic.
The Serbian tried his best, but at 33, Matic’s better days are long gone.
Fred is a functional but limited player and Scott McTominay had little impact from the bench. Donny van de Beek was not trusted to get a kick in front of any of them.
The good news amid this disappointing crash back to reality is that there is still time to put it right before the transfer window closes next week.
Perfect signing puts on a show
One of the best all round midfielders in the Premier League put on a show on Saturday evening.
Yves Bissouma, 24, put in an outstanding performance to help Brighton to a 2-0 win over Watford.
Bissouma provided the assist for Brighton’s second goal, showing a rarely seen side of his game.
It was in the defensive phase where Bissouma really excelled as he ensured Brighton kept a clean sheet.
Bissouma led his team with four tackles won and five interceptions in the win, also making eight ball recoveries. He also made two successful dribbles.
United saw last season how difficult Bissouma can be to play against, when he made six interceptions and won three tackles.
Ideal profile for United
Bissouma would add an energy to United’s midfield which was lacking against Southampton, and make the team more resolute.
Four years younger than Fred, Bissouma could be a replacement for the Brazilian as much as he is for Nemanja Matic.
Bissouma’s defensive capability could make him an ideal partner in the centre for Paul Pogba or Donny van de Beek, providing a much needed balance.
Even at this late stage of the window, Bissouma could be affordable. The Athletic speculated earlier this year he could cost around £40 million.
This is a do-able deal for United, if the club have the willpower. Sunday’s performance showed the need to make a new addition.
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