Manchester United still hold an interest in AS Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana after deciding against a move for the Frenchman last summer, according to reports.
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United decided to move for Sofyan Amrabat rather than the French midfielder but it now seems the AS Monaco midfielder could be back on the agenda.
Amrabat, since joining the club from Fiorentina, has struggled at Old Trafford and taking up the permanent option in the midfielder’s contract does seem to be unlikely as things stand.
What is clear, however, is that a new defensive midfielder is needed as Casemiro continues to struggle this season and will be out injured until the turn of the year.
Fofana interest
According to Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport, United still hold an interest in Fofana with his contract having just 18 months to run on it, a move away from Ligue 1 could be on the cards.
However, as well as United, Juventus and Luis Enrique’s PSG are also said to be keen on the midfielder and will push hard for his signature at a cut price.
SL Benfica midfielder Joao Neves has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford next summer but if that deal fails to materialise, Fofana could be an attractive option.
Fofana has been at Monaco for nearly four years following his move to the club from Strasbourg and has been an ever-present ever since.
He has three assists for the French giants this season in just 12 starts for the Ligue 1 side.
At just 24 years of age, the Frenchman could be the perfect replacement for Casemiro. His defensive statistics, in particular, make him an attractive option.
United may well have an ace up their sleeves, though, if they really do push for the Frenchman.
Paul Mitchell to help United
Following the announcement of Richard Arnold’s departure from United at the end of this calendar year, John Murtough, United’s football director. also looks to be at risk of the boot once Sir Jim Ratcliffe completes his 25 per cent takeover of the club.
Paul Mitchell looks to be the man who Ratcliffe will appoint following his decision to leave Monaco. Mitchell could be the ace up the sleeve for United if they want to pursue the midfielder next summer.
This should be one of a number of reasons why fans should get excited about the impending arrival of the 42-year-old.
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