Four defensive midfielders Manchester United could target

Manchester United have reportedly ended their interest in signing Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain with the Red Devils deciding against meeting the midfielder’s €60m asking price.

Erik ten Hag’s team remain in pursuit of a midfield anchor, however, and will now assess alternatives to target before the deadline, barring a shift in stance from PSG.

Here are four defensive midfielders Manchester United could target.

Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona)

Here we go again.

We’re getting into the Wesley Sneijder territory when it comes to perennial Manchester United links to a midfielder, but Frenkie de Jong’s name is likely to be circled once again in the coming weeks.

United tried and tried to sign the Barcelona midfielder during Ten Hag’s first summer in charge, as the Dutchman sought a reunion with a player he previously coached at Ajax. De Jong has insisted he remains content in Catalonia but is often considered a saleable asset as the Spaniards look to raise transfer funds.

Reported interest from Barcelona in Jadon Sancho has already opened up talk of a high-profile swap deal, as United look to lower an asking price expected to be in excess of €50m.

De Jong lacks the defensive security of Ugarte and others on this list but offers ease in possession that would suit Ten Hag’s build-up from the back. He ranks in the top 4% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for attempted passes, completed passes, progressive passes and progressive carries per 90 minutes across the last 12 months.

Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)

Another option who would offer silk over steel at the base of the midfield, Martin Zubimendi has been regularly linked with a Premier League transfer of late. Arsenal are long-term admirers of the stylish Spaniard, who formed part of the Spain squad that won Euro 2024 during the summer.

He has been metronomic as the deep-lying playmaker of the Real Sociedad side in recent seasons, able to alter the tempo of games with his composure and awareness.

With Arsenal pivoting to teammate Mikel Merino and Barcelona focused on other areas, United could have a free run at the 25-year-old who has a €60m (£51.4m) release clause in San Sebastien.

Richard Rios (Palmeiras)

One of the breakout stars of this summer’s Copa America, Richard Rios has been tipped for a transfer to Europe.

The 24-year-old impressed as Colombia reached the final before losing to Argentina and offers a unique profile as a defensive midfielder. Rios has endless energy and offers dynamism breaking forward, combining a slender 6ft 1in frame with technical excellence honed in futsal.

Just six players made more interceptions than Rios at this summer’s Copa America, while he led all players for successful take-ons in an example of his ball-carrying. Leading that latter metric from a central defensive position is unusual and has top scouts in Europe weighing up a move.

Palmeiras, however, are under no pressure to sell after the departure of Endrick to Real Madrid.

Edson Alvarez (West Ham)

Erik ten Hag has regularly sought reunions with familiar faces and Edson Alvarez is a name that has been mentioned as a potential target.

Alvarez excelled under Ten Hag’s management at Ajax, where he won two Eredivisie titles under the now Manchester United manager. The Mexico captain signed for West Ham last summer and had a solid first season in English football after arriving as a replacement for Declan Rice at the London Stadium.

His game is built on defensive awareness and the 26-year-old ranked in the top 11% of central midfielders in Europe for tackles, interceptions, clearances and blocks per game last season.

West Ham would be reluctant to lose Alvarez but could be tempted if an offer arrives that is too good to turn down.

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