Manchester United set sights on Atletico Madrid man Rodrigo de Paul to fix midfield issues

Manchester United are showing interest in Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo de Paul, as per Fichajes.

United’s worrying start to the new season has once again put question marks on their recruitment strategy.

The Red Devils signed Manuel Ugarte for an initial fee of £42.1 million from Paris Saint-Germain. The Uruguayan has featured regularly for his country during international breaks, but Erik ten Hag is still not convinced about his fitness, opting to start Christian Eriksen regularly instead.

The Dane has done well with the ball at his feet, but out of possession, he has proven to be a liability. Casemiro adds physicality but he simply cannot be relied upon in possession.

It is obvious United need both technical security and steel in their midfield to dominate games. Amid this, a report from Spain has linked De Paul to the Mancunian giants.

The Argentinian midfielder played a key role in his country’s World Cup triumph in 2022, helping Lionel Scaloni’s side with his creative instincts as well as defensive work. The same skill sets have also made him a key player at Atletico.

However, according to Fichajes, his future seems to be “increasingly tied to the Premier League” as United have shown a “real interest” in signing him.

It is claimed United are looking to strengthen their midfield and they see the Atletico star as an “ideal option”.

Despite his impressive performances under Diego Simeone, the 30-year-old’s exit would not be entirely unexpected.

It is suggested Atletico could look to make the most of the market opportunity, owing to his age, especially if the Premier League outfit are prepared to make a “strong offer”. It will be interesting to see how the United faithful would react if the club decide to make a move for another ageing midfielder.

The Argentine, who moved to Madrid from Udinese in 2021, is contracted to the Spanish club until June 2026.

Things are not believed to be at an advanced stage but the aforementioned source adds the next few months “will be decisive” for the player’s future, with United “expected to make a move” to secure his services.

Featured image Edilzon Gamez via Getty Images

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