Why United should sign Khephren Thuram ahead of Mateus Fernandes | OneFootball

Manchester United’s attempts to sign Premier League-proven midfielders have been met with exorbitant price-tags.

Initially this summer, Elliot Anderson was United’s dream midfield target, but Nottingham Forest want the Englishman’s suitors to surpass the British record transfer fee to secure his services. 

United have now made Mateus Fernandes their priority target. West Ham’s stance is equally tough despite their relegation to the Championship, with the Hammers demanding around £80m for the Portuguese youngster. 

Another Serie A midfielder on Manchester United’s radar

Manchester United have already reached a total agreement with Atalanta for the transfer of Ederson. The combative Brazilian will join United in a £38.8m deal, including add-ons.

United’s director of football Jason Wilcox supposedly drove the pursuit of Ederson after concluding that the Brazil international’s exceptional work rate and physicality make him an ideal fit for the intense nature of Premier League football.

According to Corriere dello Sport (via the Manchester Evening News), United are also keen on Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram.

It is understood the France international could be available for £35m as Juventus are under financial pressure after missing out on Champions League football.

At this point, United are not believed to be working actively on signing Thuram, but given his experience, profile and price tag, Wilcox should make a strong push for another Serie A midfield dynamo.

Manchester United need to go all out for Khephren Thuram

As we saw during the second half of last season, Michael Carrick does not want to hand strict, specific responsibilities to his two midfielders behind Bruno Fernandes. 

Both Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro had licence to move higher up the field and were expected to provide cover for the more advanced partner in transition.

As such, this summer, United have been targeting all-action midfielders to complement Mainoo, and Thuram fits the brief perfectly and arguably better than Fernandes.

At 6’4″, the Frenchman’s imposing physical presence allows him to dominate in duels. On top of that, he possesses exceptional close control. Early this year, Juve boss Luciano Spalletti described the midfield beast as a “super intelligent” player.

Khéphren Thuram Serie A stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Sofascore

Juventus often rely on the right-footed midfielder to recover possession and progress the play from within his own half. The 25-year-old’s powerful carries and eye for a pass can disrupt the most rigid blocks.

Thuram has drawn comparisons to France legend Patrick Vieira for the way he uses his frame to win the ball and dribble past opponents.

More importantly, INEOS figures must be aware of Thuram’s ability and attitude, given he played for OGC Nice in Ligue 1 before moving to Italy.

Feature image Alessandro Sabattini via Getty Images

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