Man United want new midfielder but can’t afford England star | Shoot

Manchester United have been one of the biggest spenders in this summer’s transfer window. 

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s acquisition of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane may seem to have gone a long way to solving their defensive and creative weaknesses from last season.

While neither players have been offered a real chance to show off their talent as yet, they will almost certainly be hugely important for the Red Devils.

However, it is also understood United want to add another midfielder to their team.

While Paul Pogba has been majestical so far, and Bruno Fernandes already has three goals in two Premier League appearances, it’s believed a holding player is on the wanted list.

Unfortunately, it is looking very unlikely that Declan Rice of West Ham United will be the arrival this summer, as the Independent reports he will be too expensive.

Rice’s supposed £100m transfer fee looks set to be too much for United.

Solskjaer’s side have already forked out £114m on Sancho and Varane, and with the Hammers looking for around £100m for the 22-year-old midfielder, he looks to be beyond their financial means this window.

Very similar to Harry Kane, Rice has three years left on his deal at the London Stadium where he has starred for the Irons.

There is also no buy-out clause in the former Chelsea youth player’s contract, therefore, the East Londoners are in a position to command whatever fee they like for his services.

It is believed Solskjaer wants a holding midfielder who can comfortably sit in with Fernandes and Pogba, allowing both midfielders to cause havoc on the opposition.

The Norwegian currently has Scott McTominay and Fred as his two sitting midfielders, but with the latter enduring a torrid afternoon in United’s 1-1 draw with Southampton, it is reported Solskjaer has lost faith in him.