Manchester United’s midfield depth isn’t what Jose Mourinho had hoped it would be, and rumors are swirling potential January signings.
Joao Mario of Inter Milan has been heavily linked with a move to PSG, however, Manchester United is set to snatch the player from under their noses, per ESPNFC.
The reports states:
"“Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario has emerged as a January target for Manchester United, sources in Italy have told ESPN FC’s Mark Ogden”"
Mario is powerful, physical midfielder — just how Mourinho likes them. Nemanja Matic is 29-years old, and Mario, 24, could be seen as a long-term replacement.
Although Inter have had a successful season, the Portuguese midfielder is looking to move on. PSG have been heavily linked, but the reports suggest that United would be willing to splash the cash for him.
United are in a peculiar position when it comes to the state of their midfield. Ander Herrera, Henrik Mkhitaryan, Juan Mata, and Marouane Fellaini are all questionable for where their future lies. They have underwhelmed, and when Pogba has missed, none have been able to step in and even partially fill his shoes.
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Mourinho could be looking to completely remodel the midfield. Mario is the same age as Pogba, and the two could for a partnership for the next decade. Mario has fallen down the pecking order at Inter, and a fresh start could do him good.
He’s clearly a talented player. There’s a reason that Inter spent €45m in 2016 for his signature.
There are rumors that United could be looking to swap Mata, or another midfielder in order to bring in reinforcements come January. Other than Pogba, the midfield is aging. Matic has been superb, but he is nearing the downward slope of his career.
The rest of the United squad has undergone renovations in recent seasons. Our attack and defense has been refreshed by bright young players like Eric Bailly and Anthony Martial. The midfield could be next.
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January will be crucial for United should they continue to challenge on all fronts. More talent is needed, but where and who is up to Mourinho to decide.