Manchester United appear to have added another position to their transfer wishlist this summer, although they have already ruled out signing one former Barcelona star.
Manchester United's summer transfer window is sure to be one of the busiest in the Premier League, especially after Michael Carrick's side confirmed they would return to the Champions League with a third-place finish last season.
Casemiro's exit upon the expiry of his contract has left a huge hole in the side. The most obvious negative of his departure is his defensive midfield performances, but his aerial ability in both boxes from set-pieces will also be missed.
Manuel Ugarte could have been in line to replace the legendary Brazilian, but all signs are pointing towards him leaving the club, too. The former PSG midfielder has struggled for game time since Michael Carrick arrived, with Mason Mount regularly chosen ahead of him.
Éderson and Mateus Fernandes could be brought in as new midfielders this summer. Éderson from Atalanta has agreed a deal to join the club, while Roundtable understands that United are in club-to-club talks with West Ham United for Fernandes.
United are looking at more than just the midfield, though. The focus after the midfield has now been revealed, while another position has just been added to the wishlist.
United add centre-forward to transfer wishlist
Benjamin Šeško and Bryan Mbeumo have shared the centre-forward minutes since Carrick took charge at Old Trafford, but the latter has also played on the flank, with the right wing being his most natural position.
However, Tyrone Marshall of the MEN has now reported that United are looking at a backup for Šeško, meaning Mbeumo will be able to focus on his right-winger duties.
"United do want an experienced back-up for Šeško," he said. "But someone of a lower profile than [Robert] Lewandowski, who would still command huge wages and is such a big name he would probably expect to start ahead of the Slovenian.
"He's a great player and his record last season was still good, but at 37, there is no way he fits into United's structure or the style of play Michael Carrick wants."
Lewandowski left Barcelona at the end of the season, as his contract was not renewed, despite netting 14 goals in just 17 starts (31 appearances) for Hansi Flick's side.
Šeško can still improve
Benjamin Šeško turned around his season after Michael Carrick arrived at Old Trafford, and he ended the campaign with an impressive 12 goals and one assist in 32 appearances. Not bad at all for his first season in the Premier League.
However, it would be unfair for United to completely rely on Šeško next season, with the club set to compete for four trophies.
Given the state of the midfield, signing a new centre-forward will not be a priority for United, but if an opportunity is there, an experienced striker should be signed. Not only would it allow Šeško a break from playing three games per week, but they could also help improve the Slovenian even further.
It appears United may not sign a centre-back, though, with so many other positions needed, and that could prove costly in the long run.
