Three value-for-money signings Man Utd could pursue including 24yo Everton star

Manchester United parted ways with manager Ruben Amorim after an inconsistent run of Premier League results.

The decision came out of the blue. The club have since bowed out of the FA Cup after a third-round loss to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Michael Carrick recently took charge as the interim head coach, and there could be some activity during the winter transfer window.

The Red Devils are just three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool and one adrift of Brentford in fifth.

Champions League qualification is well within their reach if they have a good end to the campaign under Carrick’s tutelage.

Hence, the 44-year-old could be backed with at least one low-cost acquisition this winter.

Let’s have a look at three value-for-money signings the hierarchy could explore.

Ruben Neves – Al-Hilal

Neves has vast Premier League experience from his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers. He was linked with a move to Old Trafford during the summer of 2023, but opted for the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal instead. He was signed for £47 million.

His current deal with the Saudi giants expires at the end of the season. He could return to the English top-flight for £18m. Neves would provide an upgrade on Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte in the number six role with his work rate and recovery pace. A late move could be made if he accepts a significant pay cut.

James Garner – Everton

The Red Devils sanctioned Garner’s sale to the Toffees for £15m in the summer of 2022. The 24-year-old has since developed into a quality defensive midfielder and has been brilliant this campaign with an average of three tackles and five duels won per game alongside five recoveries.

The United graduate has become an undisputed starter for the Merseyside outfit in the centre of the park, but his future is uncertain with them. His current contract expires on June 30, but the Toffees have the option to extend for another year. United are keeping a close eye and could make a late swoop.

Jean-Philippe Mateta – Crystal Palace

Mateta has established himself as one of the best strikers in the Premier League ever since Oliver Glasner took charge as the Eagles’ manager. He has netted 30 league goals in the last two seasons, and has notched up eight from 21 appearances during the ongoing campaign.

The Frenchman was valued at £40m last summer, but could be available for £30m this winter with his contract expiring in less than 18 months. Compared to the above duo, United seem less likely to pursue Mateta, given Joshua Zirkzee is poised to stay beyond the transfer window.

Benjamin Sesko’s revived form (three goals in two games) could influence the decision too.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .