3. 4
It’s remarkable to see the difference in Manchester United’s players this season compared to last season where it looked like the tools had been dropped.
Manager Erik ten Hag deserves applause for turning the fortunes of both the club and previously maligned players around with United winning the Carabao Cup last week.
They are the only Premier League team still fighting on all three of the remaining fronts and after their win over West Ham the FA Cup trophy is now just three games away.
United need another quality midfielder
The Dutch boss is turning the team into mental monsters despite the obvious holes in the team. United currently do not have an elite striker and lack quality back-up options in midfield, especially for Casemiro.
United opted to play Scott McTominay there against the Hammers and the drop in terms of quality was plain to see.
Reports have already indicated that the Red Devils are likely to address both issues with a striker and midfielder at the top of United’s schedule in the next window.
???? Manchester United are among the clubs keeping an eye on Romeo Lavia. [@AdrianJKajumba] #MUFC pic.twitter.com/JbjtPhACR8
— United Update (@UnitedsUpdate) March 2, 2023
Among midfielders, the 20-time English league champions have been linked with the likes of Jude Bellingham, Frenkie de Jong and Declan Rice. All three are likely to cost record sums.
But a lot will depend on what kind of budget United end up with and should the striker’s search end up blowing almost the entire budget, a low-cost alternative will be required.
And The Daily Mail has now revealed that the Old Trafford outfit are keeping an eye on Southampton’s rising star Romeo Lavia, who has impressed despite Saints having a poor season.
If they are to go down, they will find it increasingly difficult to keep the Belgian with an interest in his services that is growing by the day.
Lavia could be the perfect low-cost alternative
“The 19-year-old Belgian is one of Chelsea’s central midfielders in their sights for the summer and has already been the subject of inquiries from the Blues since his move to St Mary’s.
“United are now among their fans, while Arsenal are also believed to have shown interest and both sides are assessing their options ahead of moves to strengthen the central midfield this summer,” the report said.
Lavia had joined Southampton from Manchester City last summer in a deal worth up to £14m, signing a five-year deal. City have a buyback clause worth around £40m, but it can only be activated in 2024.
That means the Saints stand to make more if they decide to sell the 19-year-old in the summer. Lavia has played both as a defensive midfielder and a central midfielder, making 20 appearances in all competitions and notching one goal and one assist.
