This is according to Sir Alex Ferguson as he claims It’s evident that Ipswich Town’s ‘exceptional’ player is the ideal solution to Ruben Amorim’s £48m dilemma given that he’s currently enjoying a standout season.

Manchester United faces a critical juncture under Ruben Amorim, with 2025 shaping up as a decisive year for the club. Despite laying the groundwork in his early months as manager, Amorim now confronts escalating pressure to deliver results. A recent 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth underscored that tactical expertise alone cannot compensate for the team’s weaknesses, particularly in defense. The need for reinforcements is urgent, especially as the club’s defensive issues continue to hinder progress.

The central defense remains an area of significant concern. Although two defenders were added during the summer transfer window, the situation has hardly improved. Victor Lindelof is likely to depart, while the contracts of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans are nearing their expiration. These uncertainties have left United’s backline exposed and in desperate need of reinforcements. The left-sided center-back position, occupied by Lisandro Martinez, has drawn particular scrutiny due to his inconsistent form and Luke Shaw’s recurring injury problems. The lack of left-footed defensive options further exacerbates the vulnerability in Amorim’s system.

One potential solution to these challenges is Ajax’s Jorrel Hato, an 18-year-old talent who has been making waves this season. Hato’s versatility allows him to play both as a left-back and a left-sided center-back, making him an ideal candidate to strengthen United’s defense. His impressive statistics highlight his potential: two goals and four assists, coupled with a 90.2% pass accuracy and 72.2% long-ball success rate, demonstrate his technical quality. Additionally, his aerial prowess and maturity on the field have earned him praise from senior players like Jordan Henderson. Comparisons to Amorim’s former players, such as Eduardo Quaresma and Gonçalo Inácio, suggest that Hato could thrive under the manager’s guidance.

However, signing Hato will not be straightforward. His recent contract extension at Ajax means his price tag is expected to be steep, and other top European clubs are likely to compete for his signature. Despite these challenges, his potential to transform United’s defense makes him an attractive target. If the club cannot secure Hato, exploring alternative options with similar profiles will be essential to avoid further stagnation.

For Manchester United, the road to resurgence relies on a combination of strategic planning and decisive action in the transfer market. Ruben Amorim’s vision hinges on acquiring players who align with his tactical philosophy, and addressing the defensive frailties must be a top priority. Strengthening the squad with the right profiles could determine whether United can reclaim their status as a top contender in the coming year.