United linked Amadou Haidara provides assist on first start back for Leipzig

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Manchester United chose not to move ahead to sign a midfielder in the January transfer window, preferring to save funds for the summer.

While that tactic saw the likes of Denis Zakaria slip away to Juventus unchallenged, and Bruno Guimaraes to Newcastle, the chance to sign RB Leipzig’s Amadou Haidara remains a possibility.

Haidara’s £33 million release clause comes into effect in the summer too, the Mail report, making this a relatively straightforward deal to do if United choose to.

The midfielder played his first start at the weekend since helping Mali to the AFCON knockout stages.

Haidara and led his side to a 3-1 win over Koln, providing an assist for Dani Olmo’s second half goal which put Leipzig 2-0 up. The 24-year-old was playing alongside Konrad Laimer in central midfield as part of Leipzig’s 3-4-1-2 formation.

RBLive praised his ‘robust’ performance in midfield, helping Leipzig to win the battle in the game’s key area. Haidara received a 8.2 FotMob rating, the highest of any player on the pitch, equalled by Olmo.

He completed 38 of 42 passes, 90 per cent, winning two tackles and making two interceptions, and eight ball recoveries. This was in addition to his assist.

Decisions ahead for United

With Haidara signed twice previously by Ralf Rangnick, the United interim boss and soon to be consultant will no doubt give the midfielder a glowing reference.

Whether a deal gets done depends on how he is ranked comparatively to other alternatives, and how many midfielders United need.

It could be a couple if Paul Pogba leaves. Youri Tielemans is one possible Pogba replacement who could be available this summer, The Telegraph report, and his Premier League experience may make him a preferred candidate to Haidara.

United would still need a more orthodox defensive midfielder, and a striker. A big summer is required at Old Trafford.

Between now and the end of the season, United’s scouts will be ramping up checks on potential additions to the team. Haidara’s performance for Leipzig at the weekend will ensure he continues to get attention.

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