One of the major tasks in front of new manager Erik ten Hag when he took over as Manchester United was improving a leaky defence and adding bite and creativity to the centre of the pitch.
Too long, fans have had to endure the midfield combination of Fred and Scott McTominay and the Dutchman realised the importance of upgrading it.
And so he did, as United brought in Casemiro from Real Madrid and free agent Christian Eriksen and the duo have been impressive so far this season.
But considering their age and Fred‘s uncertain future, another midfielder is high on the list of requirement next summer as the Dutch boss seeks to continue to mould the squad in his image.
Midfielder hunt
The World Cup has been a great place to scout potential recruits and the names that have been linked with a move to Old Trafford have been in fine form.
Jude Bellingham has impressed one all with his displays in his maiden World Cup while Frenkie de Jong has helped Netherlands reach the quarterfinals.
Do you think Mohammed Kudus could fill the Ronaldo-shaped hole at Old Trafford ❓ pic.twitter.com/BAQ2SJML4h
— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) December 6, 2022
A new name that has made it to the list is Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus. Despite exiting at the group stage, the African team delighted everyone with their brave display and Kudus was at the heart of everything good.
The Ajax star scored two goals in three matches and has carried forward his good form from his club side. So far this season, the 22-year-old has scored 10 goals and registered two assists in 21 games across all competitions.
Kudus has scored an impressive four goals in the Champions League, including strikes against Premier League giants Liverpool and current Serie A leaders Napoli.
The Ghanaian’s versatility is a huge asset for his team as he has the ability to play in midfield as an advanced playmaker, out on the wings or even up front on his own.
Kudus, the star
According to Calciomercato, “Mohammed Kudus used the World Cup showcase to show off and attracted the attention not only of clubs such as Inter Milan, Juventus and Milan , but also of English sides.”
“In the Premier League , Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle are especially monitoring him,” the report added.
Ten Hag knows all about him, acquiring his signature for the Dutch champions back in 2020 for a meagre €9 million from Nordsjælland.
Kudus can solve multiple problems in attack and midfield if United were to go after him. But such a move will have to wait until the summer due to the costs involved.
Currently, he is valued at €45million by the Amsterdam club and his contract runs till 2025. And the Eredivisie champions will surely not let him go for cheap after his World Cup heroics.
