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 were guilty of switching off for the Brighton goals and Casemiro was equally disappointing in the second half.
The Brazilian had a good start to the game in the South Coast, but his influence on the proceedings dropped following the break. The club need an upgrade.
Sunday People today (page 54) report 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 need to invest further despite the £130m outlay on four new signings.
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. In our view, United must secure the services of Ugarte before the transfer window closes.
Casemiro has had a decent start to the campaign, but the Brazilian 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.
