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The Liverpool game before the international break was yet another reminder to Erik ten Hag that Casemiro is no longer the answer to United’s midfield woes in big games anymore.
Manuel Ugarte was signed from Paris Saint-Germain to replace the Brazilian but the Dutch manager has made it very clear to the fanbase that the Uruguayan needs time to adapt to his new home.
The defensive midfielder did make quite the impression when starting for his country at the weekend and is expected to make his United debut against Southampton next week.
Further upfront, the options are even more limited for the manager with Kobbie Mainoo the preferred choice ahead of Christian Eriksen, who simply cannot handle the pace of the English top-flight anymore.
Short of options in midfield
An injury to the England international could ruin the whole season for the club and on paper, it seems like the 20-time English league champions have simply not replaced Scott McTominay adequately.
That is why there has been incessant talk of a move for free agent Adrien Rabiot despite INEOS’ insistence on only signing players 26 and below.
The Frenchman wants to play in the Premier League and has ruled out a move to Turkiye and Saudi Arabia with Newcastle also in the running.
However, Football Insider have now claimed that despite United’s interest, a move does not look likely at the moment due to the costs involved.
His wage demands are proving to be beyond United’s reach at the moment, something that had stalled a potential transfer back during Ten Hag’s first summer in charge as well.
Rabiot demands too much
“Manchester United are currently finding a free transfer swoop for Adrien Rabiot too expensive, sources have told Football Insider.
“Talks are ongoing between United and the France international midfielder following his Juventus release earlier this year. Nevertheless, his demands remain too costly for Man United – who are long-term admirers of Rabiot.”
Incidentally, the Red Devils have tried to sign him during both of Ten hag’s previous campaigns in charge and it looks like it is going to be third time unlucky as well.
Rabiot can play all across the midfield and is a serial winner and would fit nicely within the current squad but unless his mother and agent Veronique reduces her demands, Rabiot will need to continue his search for a new home.
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