Whilst there exists palpable optimism following the appointment of Ralf Rangnick as interim manager, the Manchester United supporters remain realistic in their ambitions over the remainder of the campaign. For all of their stardom pervading through the senior squad, the Red Devils undeniably lack the chemistry, consistency, and mentality required of a title-challenging side. Although the team is riddled with talent and experience across the two extremes of the pitch, Manchester United have repeatedly failed to address problems emanating from the midfield region.
While neither of Scott McTominay and Fred has found themselves on the receiving end of plaudits – much to their inconsistency – since establishing themselves as first-team regulars, the midfield duo are, seemingly, the only two players capable of executing the roles required to sustain the system employed by the German manager.
The likes of Donny van de Beek, Paul Pogba, and Nemanja Matic have seen inadequate game-time in the roles employed by Fred and McTominay, with at least two of the above expected to leave the club over the upcoming transfer windows. With the team lacking in the department, Manchester United have, reportedly, earmarked targets to avoid a crisis in the midfield position moving forward.
The Red Devils have been linked to multiple players available at a bargain price, with Rangnick expected to demand a new midfielder; aiming to secure European football alongside moving deeper into the Champions League over the remainder of the season.
Amadou Haidara (Current Club: RB Leipzig)
Arguably, the most probable of RB Leipzig’s players unlikely to deny a move to Old Trafford in January, Haidara emerges as the foremost candidate in their shortlist. Having previously expressed his ambition to play for the club, Haidara’s ambition combined with his ability is likely to solve many of the team’s midfield inadequacies moving forward.
Man United have received a boost in their reported pursuit of Leipzig's Amadou Haidara – with the midfielder revealing his love of the Red Devilspic.twitter.com/qiILJzr5Tj
— The Sun – Man Utd (@SunManUtd) December 16, 2021
Harnessing the attributes of a tenacious ball-winning intelligent midfielder, the Malian is not only capable of finding the back of the net but can also consistently contribute in the build-up play alongside remaining disciplined in the defensive role required within a high-pressing system. Moreover, Haidara also encompasses the qualities of both McTominay and Fred, thereby, reducing the probability of the duo starting alongside each other in the foreseeable future.
Provided Rangnick earmarks his former player as a target in January, United are likely to swoop in and pay his £33m release clause to acquire his services from RB Leipzig. However, having already inherited an excess number of players, the German will be aware of shipping out players ahead of demanding new signings over the coming transfer window.
Franck Kessie (Current Club: AC Milan)
Another of European football’s premier targets inching closer towards the end of his contract next summer, Franck Kessie remains on the shortlist of multiple clubs interested in securing his services ahead of the next campaign. Following a string of impressive seasons at AC Milan, the Ivorian midfielder is expected to move on a free in the summer transfer window, but could certainly be tempted to shift allegiances in January, provided he is offered an appealing proposal by interested suitors.
Having played in a holding as well as a box-to-box midfield role at Milan, Kessie is certainly capable of solving the static nature across the Manchester United midfield. The Ivorian’s physical attributes combined with his vision and defensive awareness could improve the team’s numerous impediments with and without possession, while his presence will certainly bolster the prospects of the team dominating the midfield in most games moving forward.
🚨⚠️ #Tottenham, #PSG and #ManUTD are in race for Franck #Kessie.
💰 #Spurs and #Parisiens have already sent an offer (around €10M) to the 🇨🇮 agent. 🐓⚽#Transfers #Calciomercato #SerieA #EPL #THFC #MCFC #Milan
— Rudy Galetti (@RudyGaletti) December 16, 2021
Kessie will certainly remain a welcome addition if a move materializes for the Ivorian, with recent reports suggesting United are preparing to make a decisive move for the player. While question marks prevail over his suitability to a high-pressing system, the midfielder will likely emerge as an upgrade to United’s existing personnel in the middle of the park.
Boubacar Kamara (Current Club: Marseille)
Amongst the many exciting talents waiting on a big move next summer, Boubacar Kamara is likely to attract many suitors over the coming transfer windows. The midfielder has undergone remarkable development, having come through the French club’s academy, and remains amongst the most coveted prospects moving forward.
A report claims United are 'in advanced talks' for Boubacar Kamara to become first Ralf Rangnick signing #mufc https://t.co/Ty9G05GNRP pic.twitter.com/KYyRoxlNDj
— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) December 18, 2021
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Deployed as a traditional number six, Kamara will most likely be moulded into a well-rounded midfielder at United. The midfielder already boasts an impeccable tenacity for tackles and retaining possession whilst also being a composed figure in the middle of the park, employed to assist across both extremes of the pitch. With him in the team, United could potentially have another promising prospect at hand, capable of developing into a world-class footballer, thus, lessening their need to spend big money on future transfers for the position.
Although the Frenchman remains likely to leave in the summer, United will be hopeful in luring him to the club as early as January. Provided the Red Devils see an opening, given Rangnick’s preference for developing youngsters as opposed to seasoned players, Kamara could potentially prepone his plans of moving club in the upcoming transfer window.
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