Fernandes will love him! 🚀 Man Utd have discussed signing “monster” PL star! This powerhouse could transform our midfield, bringing unmatched strength and skill. Get ready for the ultimate upgrade!
Over the past ten years, Manchester United have acquired numerous players with the hope of restoring the club to its former glory.
While many of these signings have underperformed, the acquisition of Bruno Fernandes stands out as a particularly astute move in recent years.
Since joining in 2020, the Portuguese star has been outstanding, netting 79 goals and providing 66 assists in 233 matches.
Fernandes appears to be the ideal figure to lead Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s envisioned revival of the club, making it no surprise that the new owner aims to recruit players who could enhance Fernandes’ impact even further.
Manchester United are eyeing a defensive midfielder
In the last two days, transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reported on X that Manchester United are ‘seriously considering’ adding a new midfielder to their squad.
One potential candidate is Edson Alvarez, who previously worked with Erik Ten Hag at Ajax.
The Mexican midfielder has been discussed internally, as Ten Hag values both his skill and character.
Securing Alvarez, however, might be challenging this summer, given West Ham United’s desire to retain him as a crucial team member.
Why Edson Alvarez is a great fit for Fernandes
Since joining West Ham last summer for £35.4m, Alvarez has gained a reputation as a traditional, tough-tackling defensive midfielder.
The 26-year-old has been pivotal as the deepest midfielder in David Moyes’ 4-2-3-1 formation, with Hammers insider Dan Woffenden describing him as a “monster” in midfield.
Throughout the season, Alvarez started 28 Premier League games and made seven appearances in the Europa League.
Despite this, he hasn’t fully displayed his potential since moving to England, though his time at Ajax under Ten Hag suggests he has more to offer.
At Ajax, Alvarez operated as a lone number six, shouldering most of the defensive duties.
His tackling, ball recovery, and duels won highlight his defensive prowess, with football scout Jacek Kulig labeling him a “superb tackler” who is “fast, tenacious, and charismatic.”
This defensive solidity would allow Fernandes to advance higher up the pitch, where his creative abilities can shine.
During his best season at Old Trafford, Fernandes scored 18 league goals and made 12 assists in 2020/21, playing ahead of Scott McTominay and Fred, who provided him with the freedom to operate more offensively.
Adding Alvarez to the squad could help Fernandes regain that level of performance next season. Moreover, Alvarez’s time at possession-dominant Ajax contrasts with West Ham’s 40.8% possession last season, suggesting he could bring more technical skill to United’s midfield.
Although Alvarez’s signing might not immediately thrill Manchester United fans, he could significantly enhance the team’s competitiveness and success.
