United unlikely to complete double midfield raid this January | OneFootball

Manchester United’s famous Manchester derby win saw Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro deliver a masterclass in the middle of the park.

However, the Brazilian‘s time at Old Trafford is drawing to a close, while INEOS also seem intent on cutting short Manuel Ugarte’s stay.

Ruben Amorim had identified the midfield as an area in need of quality, which is why the Red Devils drew up a shortlist of targets, which included Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, and Adam Wharton.

However, none of the trio is expected to jump ship midway through the season, hence the Portuguese had asked for alternatives to be brought in.

Midfielder hunt

Despite this, INEOS did not relent, and a disagreement with Jason Wilcox brought the Amorim era to an end. And following Michael Carrick’s blockbuster start to life as caretaker head coach, INEOS seem to have softened their stance.

As relayed by The Peoples Person, the hierarchy were due to meet the legendary midfielder to discuss potential incomings.

The rumour mill has linked the 20-time English league champions with a move for Ruben Neves of Al-Hilal and AC Milan’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

The Portugal international will cost around €20 million while the Englishman is available on an initial loan deal with an option to buy.

Both deals unlikely

As per The Daily Mail, United do not want to spend big on players this window, and are looking at straight loan deals. As a result, both players have been ruled out.

“United have been looking at midfielders since the summer and may also consider signing a left winger.

“They are reluctant to pay a fee and would prefer a loan move until the end of the season. It’s understood they are unlikely to move for Ruben Neves or Ruben Loftus-Cheek.”

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers ace’s wages are a huge stumbling block, while Loftus-Cheek’s lack of Serie A starts at the San Siro is a huge red flag.

Whether INEOS change their mind, or whether they move for a different target remains to be seen. Carrick cannot let the transfer inactivity bother him too much, with a huge tie against Arsenal coming up next.

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