Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag told the club website before the FA Cup game that he was still open to bringing in new signings.
He explained: “If I had the opportunity in the comings days, then I would go for it but this is not only up to me. I think at this club, every day, that has to be the approach. You have to get better and if they are opportunities to get better you have to strike.
“That is my approach and I am looking, I am looking around with research and I have an idea with the profiles and what profiles we need to strengthen this squad.”
One potential late addition might be Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans. Here is a look at three reasons the club should look to get a deal done…
Injuries have left the midfield short.
At Old Trafford, Christian Eriksen was scythed down by Reading’s Andy Carroll and had to leave the stadium on crutches. Scott McTominay was also out due to injury, and Donny van de Beek is out for the season.
United requires reinforcements, and midfield must now be prioritized as the window nears its end.
This makes Tielemans’ move not only desirable but also necessary. United is involved in four different competitions, and bringing in the Belgian international would give Erik ten Hag’s team a better chance of success.
Tielemans would be inexpensive.
Due to the anticipated takeover, United has only had funds available for loan moves. Eriksen’s injury may give Ten Hag leverage to persuade the club to find additional funds, with a transfer deemed necessary.
Tielemans could be a possibility due to his contract expiration. The midfielder’s contract expires in June, and Leicester expects to lose him on a free transfer.
United may be able to put together a £15 million offer, even if structured so that the majority is paid in the summer rather than now, to get a deal done.
Experience in the Premier League and the Cup
Tielemans has the potential to make an immediate impact for United. The 25-year-old has made 140 Premier League appearances and would fit in quickly. He has previously scored against United and would command the respect of his teammates.
He would be cup-tied for Carabao Cup and FA Cup games, however, but his presence in the squad would still allow Ten Hag extra rotation options in the league.
Tielemans would be eligible for United to add to the Europa League squad. This was a competition he has made 12 appearances in for Leicester, and previously featured in against United for Anderlecht.
For a knockdown price, United would be signing a player of proven quality for a bargain fee, who at 25, should still have his best years ahead of him, for Erik ten Hag to help him develop.
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