Manchester United will be eager to build upon their third-placed Premier League finish heading into next season with fresh additions. And they may have received encouraging news in their chase for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott.
Having transformed his former club’s fortunes, Michael Carrick has now been appointed permanently at United. With Champions League football on the horizon next season, reinforcements across multiple positions will likely be required. The top priority, though, remains replacing Casemiro. Ederson is expected to complete his move from Atalanta shortly, but a second midfield acquisition remains on the club’s radar, with Scott understood to be their preferred target.
Here’s a look at the latest transfer developments from Old Trafford…
Man Utd get £85m transfer approval
Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is believed to be attracting attention from United this summer.
Reports suggest that contact has already been established regarding a potential switch for the Frenchman, who carries a reported price tag of £85m.
Former AC Milan and Chelsea defender Marcel Desailly believes his fellow countryman would relish a move to England and would prove a “perfect” leader in the heart of midfield for United.
“I’m sure Aurelien Tchouameni would move to the Premier League, and Manchester United is still a massive club; a massive name,” said Desailly.
“He had a difficult season, but at least he shows leadership. That’s why when you talk about Ibrahima Konate or Tchouameni, I’ll always choose Tchouameni because of his desire. And he also wears my No. 8 on his back, so I love him for this!
“I believe that he has that little bit of leadership and the desire to bring the team all together. So it could be a good move for him, just like when Raphael Varane swapped Madrid for Manchester back in the day.
“So why not? I would encourage him to go for it and try the Premier League.”
Alex Scott responds to contract offer
United’s search for a marquee midfield signing has experienced a number of turns this summer.
Their attempt to land Mateus Fernandes came up short, with the Portuguese midfielder joining Tottenham for £85million.
Scott has long been on United’s radar, and The Athletic reports that he has now turned down several contract offers from the Cherries.
The report suggests that Scott is United’s primary target for midfield reinforcement despite Bournemouth’s firm stance that he will not be sold this summer.
The player’s current deal runs until 2028, and previous reports have indicated that the Guernsey-born midfielder would welcome a move to Old Trafford.
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