Manchester United suffered a disappointing 2-1 Premier League defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium yesterday.
The Red Devils once again struggled in the final third. Their only goal came through Amad Diallo following a huge deflection.
United’s defence was guilty of switching off for the Brighton goals, while Casemiro was equally disappointing in the second half.
The Brazilian had a good start to the game, but his influence on proceedings dropped following the break. The club need an upgrade.
The Sunday People (page 54) claims that manager Erik ten Hag will urge the hierarchy to pay the £51 million fee to sign Manuel Ugarte after yesterday’s loss.
A loan-to-buy deal has also been mooted, but the club have yet to meet the valuation set by Paris Saint-Germain for the Uruguay international.
Ten Hag believes the club must invest further despite the £130m outlay on four new signings.
United have to sign Ugarte before the deadline
The Red Devils have made quality additions to the squad. Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee have already made meaningful contributions this term.
Matthijs de Ligt should come good with regular playing time. Leny Yoro could have a big part to play following his return from injury in early November.
A marquee defensive midfielder is the next priority for the club. United must secure the services of Ugarte before the transfer window closes.
Casemiro has had a decent start to the campaign, but he has been caught out of position plenty of times during the first two Premier League outings.
The Brazilian is no longer in his prime and his performance dipped yesterday as the game went on.
United need someone who has a ‘tireless‘ workrate over 90 minutes. Ugarte would provide exactly that and he is also superb with his tackling and recoveries.
The 23-year-old is a clear upgrade on Casemiro. He has similar defensive strengths, but he is much better with his ball control and distribution from midfield.
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