Manchester United Open Talks for £35m Midfielder Target

Football News

Manchester United have quickly gotten underway with their summer transfer business, a necessary step following their disappointing Premier League performance this past season.

The team finished the past season in a modest 15th place, managing only 11 wins in 38 matches and finishing a considerable 24 points adrift of the top five spots.

They have already brought in forward Matheus Cunha, and progress is being made towards signing Bryan Mbeumo, with an improved bid reportedly submitted.

Manchester United Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo transfer targets

Although these two players alone could cost over £120m, the club`s leadership seems intent on continuing their transfer activity, with several other potential signings being considered.

Investments are planned across various positions to provide the manager with the squad depth required for success at Old Trafford.

Latest on United`s Summer Signings

Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic has become a prominent target for United, with discussions anticipated regarding a potential swap deal involving Jadon Sancho.

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez is also high on United`s list, with the Argentine likely to leave as Villa look to raise funds to comply with the league`s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Emi Martinez Aston Villa goalkeeper

However, the midfield might also see a new arrival, as the club is strongly pursuing Club Brugge`s Ardon Jashari, according to reports from Sky Sports` Florian Plettenberg.

Plettenberg reports that United have initiated contact with the Belgian club regarding a transfer for the 22-year-old, who is reportedly valued at €40m (£35m).

Plettenberg also noted that United face competition from AC Milan for Jashari`s signature, with the player himself reportedly favoring a move to Italy.

Why the £35m Target Could Complement Mbeumo

As previously mentioned, United have made an improved £60m offer for Bryan Mbeumo, but still face strong competition from Tottenham Hotspur.

Bryan Mbeumo 2024-25 season stats

Despite the competition, Mbeumo, 25, had previously expressed his strong preference for joining United this summer, stating it was the only club he was interested in.

His impressive record of 20 league goals highlights his attacking prowess and would offer the team a new dimension and much-needed threat.

Due to his strong performance, a move to Old Trafford would reportedly see him demand a significant salary of £250k per week, placing him among the club`s top earners.

For Mbeumo to succeed, he would need sufficient opportunities, which Jashari could help provide if he also joins the club this summer.

Club Brugge Ardon Jashari reacts

Jashari, described as “seriously talented” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has contributed four assists this season. His average of 7.2 progressive passes per 90 minutes ranks him in the top 9% of players in the Belgian Pro League.

He also averages 7.3 passes per 90 into the final third, with 1.3 reaching the opposition box, indicating his ability to supply attackers like Mbeumo with chances next season.

Ardon Jashari`s stats for Club Brugge in 2024/25
Statistics (per 90)
Games played 25
Goals & assists 6
Pass accuracy 87%
Progressive passes 7.2
Passes into final third 7.3
Passes into opposition box 1.3
Take-on success 61%
Carries into final third 2.2

Jashari’s on-the-ball skill is further shown by his 61% take-on success rate. He frequently carries the ball forward into dangerous attacking zones.

Considering his potential, a £35m fee appears to be good value for United. The possibility of him linking up with Mbeumo is something that should excite the fans.

However, with interest from Italy, United`s management must act quickly to secure this promising talent, as Jashari possesses the qualities to succeed and develop further at his age.

Rupert Atherton
Rupert Atherton

Rupert Atherton, 45, veteran sports writer based in Sheffield. Expert in Olympic sports and athletics, tracking British competitors year-round rather than just during major events. His distinctive reporting style combines meticulous research with engaging storytelling.

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