Takefusa Kubo could be United’s answer to AFCON departures | OneFootball

Manchester United’s recent impressive resurgence in form has seen them climb up to sixth in the Premier League table, only two points behind second-placed Bournemouth.

This is partly due to the impressive form of his summer signings, with Bryan Mbeumo in particular, shining brightly.

His understanding with Amad has meant United’s right flank has been in devastating form of late. But trouble is looming on the horizon with both set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations in December.

Ruben Amorim is going to fall short of quality, which is why he is unlikely to allow Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo to depart. But even then, a left-footed attacking profile is badly needed.

United will be short on quality in attack in the winter

Academy youngster Shea Lacey has been tipped to make his breakthrough, but he remains raw, and has been linked with a loan exit in the winter.

Spanish outlet Fichajes have claimed that the Red Devils have their eye on Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo, who has been one of the Basque club’s shining lights in recent seasons.

But now, the La Liga side are contemplating a sale, and even though the Japanese “superstar” has a release clause in his contract worth €60 million, Sociedad are open to a deal for less.

As revealed in the report, the 20-time English league champions, along with Tottenham Hotspur, and Everton have all expressed their interest. They are planning an opening bid in the region of €30 million.

“Real Sociedad’s board of directors has decided to make a decisive shift in its sporting strategy: Takefusa Kubo is on his way out.

“The club believes it’s no longer getting enough out of Kubo, and his high salary combined with his inconsistent availability makes him an asset that’s starting to weigh more than it contributes.

Takefusa Kubo could be the answer

“In this context, Real Sociedad is considering opening the door to offers for the Japanese player. There is talk that they could accept amounts below his buyout clause (stipulated at around €60 million on previous occasions) to close a chapter they believe takes more than it adds.

“Various media outlets indicate that a figure of around 40 million euros could satisfy the club and lighten a burden they already believe is unsustainable.

“While Real Sociedad is considering selling Takefusa Kubo, several Premier League clubs are following suit. Teams such as Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Everton have expressed interest, although there are also reports of offers ranging between €30 and €40 million.”

As things stand, Amorim needs help in the middle of the park way more than attacking reinforcements. So take this update with a huge pinch of salt. INEOS are more likely to address the team’s midfield issues first.

Feature image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce via Getty Images

online polls

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social