Man Utd have made move for "world-class" midfielder, he could replace Manuel Ugarte

Manchester United are poised to reinforce their midfield department during the summer.

The Red Devils have already confirmed that Casemiro will depart when his contract expires at the end of June.

The club need a marquee replacement for the Brazilian, and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is a prime target.

United may also look for another midfielder, with the prospect of Manuel Ugarte heading for the exit door too.

Ugarte has been a fringe player and has played second fiddle to Casemiro for the number six position this campaign.

He was linked with a potential exit last winter, and United have opened the door for his potential sale this summer.

In that case, United should prefer an experienced ball-playing midfielder. We believe Leon Goretzka should be signed.

Goretzka’s deal with Bayern expires on June 30, and he has confirmed his departure to pursue a new challenge.

United have ‘already made moves‘ for the German star. He would be a good acquisition on a free transfer agreement.

Goretzka is a strong ball-playing midfielder, and he has a 93 percent passing accuracy in the Bundesliga this term.

He has also caught the eye with his ball control, losing possession on just 5.3 occasions per game for Bayern.

Goretzka, described as ‘world-class‘ by Bundesliga.com, is eyeing a signing-on fee of £8.7 million with a weekly salary of £115,000 plus bonuses.

That would only make him the 14th-highest earner at United, slightly less than Ugarte currently earns (£120k per week).

In our view, United should seek to bring in Goretzka as Ugarte’s successor for the backup midfield role for next season.

Despite turning 31, he has shown no signs of slowing down and has another two or three years at the highest level.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com, Sofascore.com & Capology.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .