MANCHESTER UNITED might acquire Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante this summer to help relieve their midfield woes.
Manchester United’s new manager, Erik ten Hag, has a massive rebuilding job this summer, with a slew of the club’s players poised to leave for bargain prices or on free transfers. Following the announcement that Ten Hag will join the club, the Red Devils have been connected with a slew of elite European players, with N’Golo Kante among those projected for a transfer to Old Trafford. If the Frenchman moves to the Theatre of Dreams, Express Sport looks at their prospective starting lineup.
De Gea, goalkeeper
Since his arrival to the north west 11 years ago, David de Gea has been a regular in United’s lineup.
The Spaniard has over 480 appearances for the club and will likely hit his half-ton next season.
Dean Henderson is the second goalkeeper option, however his poor form towards the end of last season, along with De Gea’s influence, has seen him stagnate.
And with a new manager in charge, De Gea may usher in yet another era without Sir Alex Ferguson.
Timber, Maguire, Varane, and Shaw on defense.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka has always been seen as United’s weak link in defense, and Ten Hag’s predilection for playing out from the back might be underscored by his decision to leave the star out of the starting lineup.
Jurrien Timber of Ajax has been connected previously, and his offensive presence at Old Trafford may be very useful.
In other news, Harry Maguire’s leadership at the back, along with Raphael Varane’s agility, may be poised to continue.
When Luke Shaw returns from injury, he will very certainly be favoured over Alex Telles.
Kante, De Jong, and Fernandes in midfield
Since joining Chelsea six years ago, Kante has been one of their most reliable performances, and he would be a revelation in the United midfield.
United are apparently interested in signing him, with Tuchel planning to replace him with a younger midfielder.
Frenkie de Jong has also been linked with a transfer to United, with his former boss expected to make the transition during pre-season.
And despite his struggles this season, Bruno Fernandes should preserve his status as one of United’s finest players.
Jadon Sancho has recently blossomed, and he might benefit from Ten Hag’s offensive system.
Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that he may stay at Old Trafford despite the club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League.
Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, and Anthony Elanga are all available on the flanks for the Dutchman.
Rashford is expected to receive the nod since he plans to remain and learn under a long-term coach.