Manchester United are eyeing up several midfield options to overhaul their squad this summer, and a new name has now arrived on their shortlist, according to Sports Boom.
Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson is understood to be the top target at Old Trafford, but he prefers a move to Manchester City this summer, and United are keeping their options open for potential alternatives, as they look to add two or three midfielders to the squad for the next campaign.
Now it has emerged that the Red Devils are prepared to table an offer to sign one of the most exciting young midfield prospects in Europe.
Man Utd Eyeing Alan Varela Deal
According to the report, Man Utd are looking at a move to sign FC Porto star Alan Varela this summer as a replacement for Casemiro.
The Brazilian superstar is set to depart at the end of his contract, and United know that they need to replace him adequately or face having a huge hole in the heart of their squad. The Argentina midfielder, described as a ‘technical warrior’, has been a key member of Francesco Farioli’s side this season as they sit top of the Portuguese league table.
United are understood to see him as the ideal successor to Casemiro, but Porto are ahead of the curve when it comes to interest in the 24-year-old and recently tied him down to a new contract which includes a €75m (£65m) release clause.
The Reds have watched the player regularly in person this season, however, and are prepared to knock on the door of the Portuguese side with an offer to convince them to part ways with the former Boca Juniors star.
Porto are not looking to sell but are not against it if an acceptable offer comes in, which is in line with their usual policy of making one big sale per summer to stay within financial limits.
Varela Would Be Wildcard Signing
With United knowing that they are going to be in some battles this summer to bring in the midfielders they want, they must be prepared to pivot to other options if they’re unsuccessful.
Varela is a player who won’t be well known to the average fan, but his qualities are obvious, and they fit well with what Man Utd are looking for. A deal won’t be cheap, but it could turn into a bargain if he fulfills his potential.
A deal won’t be easy to do, and he’s not got the Premier League experience that INEOS are understood to be keen on, but this is a deal that should be seriously looked at.
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