"Valverde is the kind of all-round midfielder who can offer strength, ball carrying ability and tactical intelligence, traits that make him attractive to clubs seeking to upgrade a midfield currently struggling to control games. United's midfield issues this season are well documented, Bruno Fernandes has been asked to operate deeper in a double-pivot role that is not his natural position, and the team has at times lacked the balance and bite required in the centre of the park."
"That said, any January approach would be complicated by several factors. For starters, Real Madrid's standing on Valverde is hardly secret, he remains an important part of their squad rotation, and Madrid are typically reluctant to sell key midfield assets unless the price is right and their own planning has alternatives. On top of that, United's current recruitment strategy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the club's preference for younger targets."
Manchester United have added Federico Valverde to a January shortlist to reinforce midfield and provide greater control. Valverde combines strength, ball-carrying ability and tactical intelligence, offering ball-winning and shuttle play that could allow Bruno Fernandes to operate closer to goal. Fernandes has been deployed deeper in a double-pivot role that reduces his attacking influence, while Casemiro and the departure of Christian Eriksen have weakened midfield balance. Real Madrid value Valverde and are unlikely to sell without significant persuasion. Premier League rivals Tottenham and Chelsea could compete for his signature, and United's preference for younger targets under Sir Jim Ratcliffe complicates any approach.
Read at www.caughtoffside.com
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