August 20th 2024.
René Meulensteen, a former coach for Manchester United, believes that the club needs to acquire another midfielder. However, he advises against selling Scott McTominay in order to fund the purchase. Despite already making four signings, United is still in search of another midfield option before the summer transfer window closes in August. They have previously discussed a potential move for Manuel Ugarte with Paris Saint-Germain, but negotiations were put on hold due to the asking price. Recent reports suggest that discussions are still ongoing, with various proposals being considered.
In order to fund further transfers, United may have to sell some of their players. One name that has come up is McTominay, with Napoli, Galatasaray, and Fenerbahce expressing interest. However, Meulensteen, who was Sir Alex Ferguson's first-team coach during the club's successful period from 2007 to 2013, believes that selling McTominay would be a mistake. Instead, he suggests that United should try to find a buyer for Antony, stating that the winger has not shown any improvement and the club now has better players in his position with the addition of Amad Diallo and the emergence of Alejandro Garnacho. He also mentions that Bruno Fernandes can play in a wide position if needed.
Meulensteen continues to say that United does not necessarily need a player with pace, but rather someone with good delivery. He believes that there are many options available and that Antony has not done enough to justify his fee and wages. He also suggests that McTominay is a valuable player who always gives his all and can play in multiple positions. Meulensteen believes that there are other candidates that could be sold instead.
Another player who could potentially leave United is Jadon Sancho, with the club asking for £40million for his services. Following a public falling out between Sancho and manager Ten Hag last season, the winger was sent back to Borussia Dortmund on loan. While he was left out of the squad for the first game of the season due to an ear infection, Ten Hag also mentioned that he preferred other players. Meulensteen believes that it would be best for Sancho to move on from United to avoid any repeat of last season's drama and to create unnecessary distractions for the team.
Regardless of how United finances their transfers, Meulensteen emphasizes the importance of bringing in another midfielder with energy and legs in the middle of the park. He is surprised that Ten Hag has not utilized Lisandro Martinez in this role and instead has opted for another center-back pairing. Meulensteen backs a move for Ugarte, stating that the team needs someone who can exploit the midfield area and provide a combination of qualities. He mentions that Martinez fits this description and that Ugarte, at 23 years old, could also be a good fit for the position.
In conclusion, Meulensteen believes that United should not sell McTominay and instead focus on finding a buyer for Antony. He also suggests that Sancho should move on and that the club needs to bring in another midfielder, with Ugarte being a potential target. He also expresses surprise at Ten Hag's decision not to use Martinez in this role and emphasizes the importance of having a player with energy and discipline in the midfield.
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