Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has advised his old club to prioritise signing Bruno Guimaraes over Arsenal target Manu Kone as they rebuild their midfield this summer. United are looking to bring in at least two new midfielders, possibly a third, after Manuel Ugarte suffered a knee injury that will keep him sidelined for an extended period.
United's Midfield Targets and Missed Opportunities
A deal is already in place to sign Ederson from Atalanta, but United have missed out on two other targets. Elliot Anderson chose to join local rivals Manchester City, while Mateus Fernandes opted for Tottenham Hotspur. United were unwilling to meet West Ham's £85 million asking price for a midfielder, with the player's preference unclear throughout negotiations.
The failed pursuits of Anderson and Fernandes have inflated the market, driving up asking prices for other targets like Alex Scott and Felix Nmecha. The ongoing World Cup is also boosting reputations, with France's Manu Kone among those impressing. Arsenal have shown interest in the Roma star, but Saha believes United need a different type of midfielder.
Saha's Preference for Premier League Experience
“I would consider him [Manu Kone] but I would love to have someone who has a bit more experience to be honest,” Saha told Metro via Freebets.com. “He has a lot of talent and quality, I’m not saying he wouldn’t be a good signing. It’s just because of the big gap left by a player like Casemiro. Based on his experience and his leadership in how he positions himself and understands his role playing under Michael Carrick.
“That person [who comes into replace him] will have to adapt to something we loved last year but is also someone that is going to give a bit more balance and that needs experience. Maybe someone who has already played in the Premier League would have been better. Anderson would have been better. Maybe someone like Guimaraes would be better. Players who have this guarantee because next year is going to be tough and we need those midfielders to be right on the spot right away.”
Guimaraes as a Potential Solution
Bruno Guimaraes, the Newcastle United star, was strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford earlier this year. However, Arsenal are now pushing for a deal for the Brazil international. Saha's endorsement adds weight to the idea that United should target Guimaraes, who has Premier League experience and could fill the void left by Casemiro.
United's midfield rebuild is critical, especially with Ugarte's injury and the need for immediate impact players. Saha's comments highlight the importance of experience in a team aiming to compete at the highest level next season.
