Tomas Aranda: Boca Juniors boss Ubeda makes bold claim on United target | OneFootball

Manchester United are already preparing for the upcoming summer transfer window, where they are likely to further reinforce their squad. The Red Devils’ revamped approach in the transfer market has seen them being linked with emerging talents as well as established players.

The Premier League giants have moved away from their previous strategy of investing in big-name stars and are now focused on candidates who can serve them in the present and the future. United are now trying to sign youngsters with the potential to become household names and are ready to go shoulder-to-shoulder with their rivals for top talents.

This new appraoch has seen them sign several exciting young players, including Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Sekou Kone, Diogo Leon and Patrick Dorgu. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Red Devils have identified Boca Juniors gem Tomas Aranda as a possible target.

The Argentine attacking midfielder has now received high praise from Boca manager Claudio Ubeda.

Potential to be world-class

Speaking recently, as cited by Ole, Ubeda urged caution with Aranda, but acknowledged that he has the potential to be world-class. The Boca Juniors manager said: “I’m going to repeat what I said at the last press conference.”

“What we always try to do with lads making their debut like this is to protect them, not to blow things out of proportion. I hope he can become the best player in the world.”

Ubeda went on to state that Aranda needs to patiently build his career, adding: “He needs to build his career step by step, and he’s doing well, showing real character. The support of his teammates is a huge help in his continued development, as he always has technically gifted players around him to provide support.”

“He’s a player who brings flair, dedication and is strong in one-on-one situations. We’re going to support him so he can continue to develop.”

A first-team regular for Boca

From breaking into the senior side this January to becoming a first-team regular for Boca Juniors, Aranda’s career has taken a superb turn in the past few months. The 18 year old has registered two goals in 13 appearances across all competitions this season, starting seven games.

Tomas Aranda Stats: 2026

Source: Transfermarkt.

Aranda started in Boca Junior’s Copa Libertadores Group D tie against Universidad Catolica earlier this week, his first ever appearance in the tournament, but showed no signs of nerves. It was his exquisite backheel that led to Lautaro Blanco teeing up Adam Bareiro to score the winner in a 2-1 victory.

Earlier this year, Ubeda hailed the teenager, stating: “We don’t need a player who carries the ball; we’ve got Aranda on the bench.” The Argentine is proving his manager right with every passing game and also justifying United’s interest in his services.

Given that Bruno Fernandes is already on the wrong side of 30, Aranda could even become a long-term replacement for the Portugues. However, prising him away from La Bombonera will be no easy feat.

The previous report suggesting that Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme is keen to keep hold of the player for now. Chelsea are in the race as well, so the Red Devils will have to step up their pursuit if they wish to win this race.

Final Thoughts

Aranda was invited to train with the Argentina senior side in the recent international break, but United’s Lisandro Martinez was missing due to an injury. Perhaps “The Butcher” could eventually lend the Red Devils a hand in helping convince the teenager to move to Old Trafford. Boca Juniors also have former United stars Ander Herrera and Edinson Cavani in their squad, so the English giants could also enlist their services to win the race.

Featured image Marcelo Endelli via Getty Images

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