MAN UTD ‘MAKE CONTACT’ FOR YOUSSOUF FOFANA ALONGSIDE ALVAREZ

Manchester United have made initial contact with French midfielder Youssouf Fofana over a potential transfer from AS Monaco, according to journalist Dylan McBennett on X. The 25-year-old midfielder is currently competing in the Euros with the French national team and is unlikely to engage in transfer negotiations until the tournament concludes for Les Bleus. However, Manchester United are keen on securing his services as they aim to revamp their squad.

The potential departure of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro from Old Trafford this summer has heightened the need for a new central midfielder. Fofana, whose contract with Monaco is in its final year, appears to be a logical target. Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu has reported that Monaco might be willing to sell Fofana for around £30 million.

Fofana has been impressive over the past year, making him an attractive prospect for Manchester United. Known for his decisiveness and effectiveness on the ball, as well as his defensive solidity, Fofana would fit well into Erik ten Hag’s system, which emphasizes possession and defensive strength. Over his four-year tenure at Monaco, he has demonstrated these qualities consistently.

Furthermore, Fofana has an excellent injury record, with only one significant injury—a 15-game absence due to an ankle strain in 2019. Since then, he has missed games only due to illness, showcasing remarkable match fitness. This is a key consideration for Manchester United, who struggled with injuries to key players like Mason Mount, Luke Shaw, and Raphael Varane last season.

This news coincides with reports of manager Erik ten Hag nearing a new contract agreement, which would grant him greater influence over transfer decisions. Despite some previous underwhelming signings, Ten Hag’s system and vision for the team could benefit from Fofana’s integration into the squad.

In addition to Fofana, Manchester United are also considering West Ham’s Edson Alvarez as a potential midfield reinforcement, as revealed by Fabrizio Romano on YouTube. Alvarez, known for his combative nature and ability to reclaim possession, has been a crucial player for West Ham. United view him as having a playing style similar to Casemiro, making him a valuable option for bolstering their midfield.

Romano mentioned, “Internally they are discussing several options in case Casemiro leaves the club and in case there will be room with FFP for a new midfielder. One of the names they discussed in the recent days is also Edson Alvarez from West Ham. Very expensive, very difficult deal, because for West Ham, he’s a crucial player.”

As Manchester United seek to reinforce their squad, particularly in the deeper midfield positions, both Fofana and Alvarez present attractive options. The club’s pursuit of Fofana, coupled with interest in Alvarez, highlights their commitment to addressing the midfield gap left by Casemiro’s potential departure.

United’s approach to the transfer market this summer will be critical in shaping their competitive edge for the upcoming season. With strategic acquisitions like Fofana and possibly Alvarez, they aim to enhance their squad depth and overall performance, ensuring they remain contenders both domestically and in Europe.