5 CHEAPER ALTERNATIVES TO FRENKIE DE JONG FOR MANCHESTER UNITED

FC Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong

Erik ten Hag and Manchester United have been obsessed with the idea of bringing Frenkie de Jong to Old Trafford for nearly a year now. They spent the majority of the 2022 summer transfer window pursuing the Dutchman, but when a deal became unfeasible, the club decided to change course and reinforce the defensive midfield position instead via the signing of Casemiro. And whilst the former Real Madrid star has been an excellent addition to Erik ten Hag's side, the need for a tempo-controlling, first phase midfielder is still a glaring one for United. Christian Eriksen, Fred and, most recently, Marcel Sabitzer have all been deployed in that midfield role at times, and only Eriksen has seemed somewhat comfortable there. Even then, the Dane appears far more comfortable in a more advanced role. Therefore, it is imperative that United sign a progressive, deep-lying playmaker who will focus on first phase progression and grant the team greater control over games.

Frenkie de Jong is likely still the dream target for Erik ten Hag, but such a deal appears increasingly unrealistic. The Netherlands international has become a vital cog in Xavi's Barcelona machine and the player himself has repeatedly expressed his desire to succeed at the Camp Nou. Consequently, it is important that Manchester United identify alternative options to reinforce their midfield this summer. Players such as Moisés Caicedo and Declan Rice have been linked with moves to Old Trafford, but both players would come at a steep cost, particularly when a number of other positions require new additions ahead of the 2023/24 season.

As such, I'll be looking at midfield targets aged 25 and below who will likely command less than €50 million to acquire, giving the club greater flexibility to strengthen in other positions, most notably at centre-forward. Ideally, this player should possess high passing volume statistics, as well as high passing quality. Ball-carrying and press-resistance are also key attributes as they are both traits currently lacking in United's midfield. Defensive strength would be a valuable bonus in a midfield signing, however it isn't as vital as the other attributes due to the presence of Casemiro as the holding midfielder and primary ball-winner.

With all of these factors in consideration, let's take a look at who Manchester United may pursue as a cheaper alternative to Frenkie de Jong.

ENZO LE FÉE

FC Lorient's Enzo Le Fée

Enzo Le Fée has enjoyed a highly productive season for FC Lorient. Playing in an advanced midfield role, he's recorded 4 goals and 6 assists in Ligue 1 this season — a particularly impressive return for a side languishing in mid-table obscurity. It must be immediately acknowledged that Le Fée isn't a particularly high volume passer, only ranking in the 76th and 70th percentiles for passes attempted and passes completed per 90 respectively amongst midfielders in Europe's top 5 leagues over the past year. However, this may also be a result of Lorient's system as they aren’t a possession-based side, ranking 5th from bottom in average possession in Ligue 1 this season. That said, in his advanced role, Le Fée is expected to be more of a penetrative passer as opposed to a high volume one.

When Le Fée gets into advanced positions, he's an exceptionally creative and inventive passer of the ball.

Enzo Le Fée's passing — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in Europe's big 5 leagues, UCL + UEL per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

As shown by the data, the Frenchman is an excellent creator and has the ability to unlock defences. He's capable of firing off a variety of passes into teammates in order to catch the defence unaware and subsequently create high quality chances. He's especially potent from the left flank and in the left half-spaces where he has a greater field of vision and can make clever passes between the lines.

Enzo Le Fée pass vs. OGC Nice — source: Wyscout

Le Fée possesses remarkable vision and fantastic execution on his passes, with the above pass playing a major role in a goal for Lorient. This is the role in which he has thrived for Lorient, but Manchester United require a player who will be a first phase ball progressing midfielder. Therefore, Le Fée would need to adjust his game in order to fulfil that role. His final third abilities are still valuable, especially in an Erik ten Hag team where positional rotations are common and versatility is vital, but first phase proficiency is the priority for United's no. 8. Ball retention is important for this role, but Le Fée ranks in the 2nd percentile for dispossessions per 90, which is concerning. Once more, this may be impacted by his role, but it would still need to be cleaned up. Fortunately, he possesses the skillset to operate as a deep-lying playmaker with more buildup responsibility.

Le Fée is incredibly press resistant, using his low centre of gravity and high technical quality to evade challenges and win duels.

Enzo Le Fée dribble vs. Spain U21 — source: Wyscout

As shown in the above clip, the French midfielder has the strength and balance to hold off defenders whilst maintaining his control of the ball and evading the Spanish pressure. This is a vital attribute to possess as a first phase midfielder as you'll often be pressed aggressively, especially when you receive the ball in your own half or closer to your own goal. Le Fée is capable of moves of this nature on a regular basis and it plays a major role in how his team is able to progress the ball.

The 23-year-old is also a fantastic dribbler and ball-carrier. Despite his small stature — standing at just 1.70m tall — he covers plenty of ground with his ball-carrying due to his precise dribbling at speed and his smooth movement with the ball.

Enzo Le Fée's take-ons — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in Europe's big 5 leagues, UCL + UEL per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Enzo Le Fée's carries — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in Europe's big 5 leagues, UCL + UEL per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

The data makes for extremely favourable reading for Le Fée as he ranks above the 90th percentile for nearly every key take-on and carry metric. He is genuinely an elite dribbler and ball-carrier from midfield and that's shown both statistically and visually. High level ball-carrying is a quality severely lacking in the Manchester United midfield at the moment; Le Fée would immediately remedy this.

As mentioned prior, defensive quality is a valued trait in a potential midfield signing. Whilst the presence of Casemiro does offset some defensive weaknesses in a new no. 8, it's still important that a defensive liability is not fielded in that deeper midfield role as we've seen with Christian Eriksen this season. Fortunately, Enzo Le Fée is excellent defensively.

Enzo Le Fée's defence — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in Europe's big 5 leagues, UCL + UEL per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

He is a truly prolific tackler, being tenacious and aggressive without losing control. His anticipation is fantastic as he often has to time his challenges against opposition dribblers, especially in the defensive third of the pitch. In general, he prefers to make tackles as opposed to interceptions, but it results in high-volume ball-winning regardless.

Evidently, Le Fée wouldn't struggle with the defensive requirements of a deeper midfield role and would, in fact, thrive in that aspect. He's an immensely well-rounded midfielder and can operate in virtually every midfield role due to his broad skillset.

Enzo Le Fée crab cake — source: Cannon Stats

Whilst he doesn't currently play the exact role of need, Enzo Le Fée is more than capable of it, especially with his skillset. He'll need to cut down on turnovers and become a higher volume passer with a better completion percentage, but he doesn't lack the quality to be able to do so. With the Lorient star reportedly being available for just €25 million this summer, this deal would be an absolute bargain for Manchester United or any other top European side looking for a young, talented midfielder with exceptional versatility.

ORKUN KÖKÇU

Feyenoord's Orkun Kökçu

Feyenoord have been dominant in the Eredivisie this season, sitting 8 points clear of title rivals Ajax and PSV at the time of writing. A major reason for that has been the outstanding play of club captain Orkun Kökçu. The Turkish midfielder has been instrumental for Feyenoord through his creativity and dynamism, emerging as one of the best players in the Eredivisie this season. He's a player Erik ten Hag will be very familiar with and one Manchester United should be keeping an eye on for their no. 8 position.

Kökçu is an incredibly high volume passer. He's the nucleus of everything Feyenoord do offensively and is always looking to be involved.

Orkun Kökçu's passing — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Kökçu is universally trusted by his teammates in possession and he makes great use of that trust. The number of creative passing metrics in which he ranks highly is genuinely astonishing and shows his willingness and ability to unlock opposition defences. That said, the Turkey international's accuracy isn't as high as would be desired for a Manchester United no. 8 due to his propensity for trying difficult, penetrative passes. This makes sense as he's capable of a variety of passes from live and dead balls.

Orkun Kökçu's pass types — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Due to Kökçu's dynamic passing abilities, he's often deployed as a more attacking no. 8 where he can impact the game in advanced zones. He's a significant final third threat, registering 12 goals and 3 assists in all competitions. Additionally, he ranks in the 99th percentile for expected assists, suggesting he should have even more assists than he's currently recorded. As mentioned with regards to Enzo Le Fée, this final third ability is important for an Erik ten Hag side where players are expected to make positional rotations and still remain comfortable. That said, Kökçu will still need to improve on his overall pass accuracy and become more secure in possession, which will mean taking fewer risks at times, particularly in the first phase.

One of the Turkish star's greatest strengths is his ferocious ball-striking. On both passes and, especially, shots, he generates fantastic power and accuracy through his pinpoint execution.

Orkun Kökçu goal vs. Turkey — source: Wyscout

Kökçu loves a long shot and many of his final third entries result in one. He ranks in the 98th percentile for total number of shots, showing his willingness to look for goal, particularly from distance.

He does indeed have significant final third involvement, ranking in the 99th percentile for touches in the attacking third. Many of his attacking third entries come via his excellent ball-carrying.

Orkun Kökçu's carries — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Orkun Kökçu carry vs. Croatia — source: Wyscout

The Feyenoord captain is a high level ball-carrier with great running power and quick feet. Similarly to Enzo Le Fée, Kökçu is rather short, but he has a strong frame which he uses to great effect to cover ground with power and technical security. As was also the case with Le Fée, this ball-carrying is of high value to Manchester United due to the lack of quality ball-carriers in the midfield at the moment; Kökçu would provide an immediate upgrade in that respect.

Defensively, there is significant room for improvement for the Turkish midfielder. He's statistically weak defensively and often has to have his defensive responsibilities limited.

Orkun Kökçu's defence — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Whilst his tackles in the attacking third are impressive, showing his ability to counter-press well higher up the pitch, the rest of his defensive metrics are extremely underwhelming. This may be seen as a major downside, especially if he's not operating as the most advanced midfielder at United, but his offensive brilliance often offsets this.

Orkun Kökçu crab cake — source: Cannon Stats

The data supports the idea that he's an elite midfielder offensively or, at the very least, has the potential to become one very soon. He's still just 22 years old so he has the potential to improve even more, especially against greater competition.

Whilst he's not quite yet a first phase specialist, Kökçu has shown the ability to operate in that role and he also provides the added benefit of being a spectacular player in the final third. His defensive issues are a concern, but he'd benefit from playing alongside a midfielder like Casemiro who is perhaps the best ball-winning midfielder of his generation. Based on various reports, the Turk could be available for a fee in the region of €40 million, making him an attractive option for Erik ten Hag and his recruitment team. He's certainly one who requires extensive monitoring as we approach the summer transfer window.

MAXIME LOPEZ

U.S. Sassuolo Calcio's Maxime Lopez

Whilst the last two entries have been more advanced midfielders with first phase capabilities, Maxime Lopez is truly a first phase specialist. The diminutive Frenchman acts as the metronome for his side, controlling the tempo, knowing when to slow it down and speed it up. The deeper positions in which he operates allow this degree of control.

Maxime Lopez touchmap — source: smarterscout

Lopez' real value can be seen in his ability to build-up from deeper zones where he's able to direct play and give his side greater control over games. He specialises in progressing the ball from deep and acting as the primary option in the first phase.

Maxime Lopez' touches — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in Europe's big 5 leagues, UCL + UEL per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

As made evident by the data, Maxime Lopez has most of his touches in these deeper zones, ranking in the 94th percentile for touches in the defensive third and 84th percentile for touches in the middle third. He orchestrates from deeper, rarely playing a significant role in the final third, instead presenting an option to re-circulate possession and maintain pressure on the opposition through his ball retention and safe passing.

Maxime Lopez' passing — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in Europe's big 5 leagues, UCL + UEL per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Lopez is an excellent high volume passer. He largely avoids long passes, instead preferring to circulate possession with safer passes where his accuracy is particularly high. However, the former Marseille midfielder is also a proficient high-risk passer. He ranks in the 89th percentile for progressive passes, 96th percentile for total progressive passing distance and 92nd percentile for passes into the final third. This is highly impressive for any player, not least one who's more commonly expected to simply control the tempo and use his technical security to maintain possession. Lopez is a creative passer of the ball, capable of unlocking defences from deep.

Maxime Lopez pass vs. Fiorentina — source: Wyscout

The Frenchman possesses wonderful technique when shaping his progressive passes from deep. He has both the confidence and ability to make a variety of passes into teammates. This is an important aspect of being a no. 8 in a possession-based side where retention must be supplemented with creativity, particularly against low blocks.

Lopez also uses his impressive ball-carrying abilities to progress the ball. The Sassuolo midfielder is an excellent carrier and very secure in possession with strong ball retention.

Maxime Lopez' carries — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in Europe's big 5 leagues, UCL + UEL per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Maxime Lopez carry vs. Napoli — source: Wyscout

His small frame works to his advantage here and he's able to slither into tight spaces unopposed, only being stopped by a cynical foul. Ball-carrying from deep was one of the abilities that motivated Manchester United's heavy pursuit of Frenkie de Jong last summer, therefore it's an attribute that will greatly influence their pursuits this summer too. Thus far, he's probably the player who most closely resembles De Jong and his skillset, albeit at a much smaller size.

Standing at just 1.67m tall and weighing only 58kg, Lopez is a very small midfielder, and that may be cause for concern as far as his adaptation to Premier League football goes. He's particularly lightweight and that can often show in 50/50 duels in which he's involved. As a deep-lying playmaker who's expected to be combative and press-resistant, this may be a stumbling block for him.

Speaking of combativeness, Lopez isn't elite defensively, but he's still solid in that regard. Despite his small size and slender frame, he ranks in the 88th percentile for tackles in the defensive third, however, his other defensive metrics are average or slightly below. Once again, the presence of Casemiro will play a significant role in hiding some of the defensive frailties that Lopez made have on that end.

With his contract expiring in 2025, reports in Italy have suggested that the French midfielder could be available for just €15 million — a bargain in the current market. This would also give United greater flexibility elsewhere in the transfer market during a time when other reinforcements are needed. Lopez does come with some concerns, most of which are physical, but he's an excellent stylistic fit and would instantly upgrade the midfield.

MATHEUS MARTINELLI

Fluminense FC's Matheus Martinelli

It has become increasingly commonplace for clubs to scout for talented players in South America due to their lower costs and high potential. This summer presents an opportunity for Manchester United to scout within the continent and reinforce their midfield with high quality but underpriced South American talent. One such talent could be Fluminense's Matheus Martinelli.

The Brazilian starlet is a dual-threat midfielder, operating as both a first phase progressor and more advanced playmaker for his club. This is due to his broad skillset and ability to impact the game in a number of ways. Martinelli is a complete midfielder and is often deployed as such for Fluminense.

He's comfortable in both half-spaces and is heavily involved in buildup whilst also having a rather expansive role as he moves forward into more advanced positions.

Matheus Martinelli heatmap — source: Sofascore

Martinelli is truly an all-action midfielder and makes his presence felt in all areas of the pitch. As shown by his heatmap, he operates most frequently in the half-spaces, but occasionally he drifts wide towards the touchline too. This versatility is a key component of his role with Fluminense.

The São Paulo-born midfielder is commonly involved in every phase of play, often operating as a roaming playmaker.

Matheus Martinelli's touches — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Always demanding of the ball, Martinelli receives a high volume of touches in all thirds of the pitch, using his box-to-box traits to match the intensity of the game and provide a spark everywhere on the field of play. He's given the freedom to get forward for his club and this is made evident by the data reflecting his touches in the attacking third and opposition penalty area, whilst his touches in his own penalty area and defensive third show his willingness to be heavily involved in buildup too.

Martinelli is a high volume passer. This is unsurprising considering his sheer volume of touches. However, he combines his high volume passing with a willingness to take risks in advanced areas.

Matheus Martinelli's passing — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

The Brazilian youngster attempts and completes an enormous number of passes at a high rate of accuracy which is vital for any midfielder heavily involved in buildup. However, he's also a major factor in attacking areas through his progressive passes, passes into the final third and penalty area, as well as his assist metrics. It is no hyperbole to suggest that he is a complete midfielder, and his quality of passes stand out too.

Matheus Martinelli pass vs. Avaí FC — source: Wyscout

Martinelli has a wonderful eye for a pass, even through the tightest of corridors. He's capable of executing a plethora of passes due to his remarkable technique and self-confidence in these situations. Threading the eye of the needle with one's weaker foot when under pressure is an extremely difficult skill to pull off, but Martinelli makes it look completely effortless, such is his quality. Not only this, Martinelli is also more than capable of pinpoint switches of play. He doesn't attempt these as often because the team's system doesn't usually instruct for these passes to be played, but, when feasible, the Fluminense star is able to use his fantastic ball-striking ability to execute flawless long passes to teammates.

Matheus Martinelli long pass vs. Vasco da Gama — source: Wyscout

Matheus Martinelli also happens to be a very strong dribbler. He ranks in the 90th and 92nd percentiles for take-ons attempted and take-ons completed respectively. These are highly impressive statistics and are indicative of his all-action approach that allows him to threaten opposition defences in number of ways. Even more impressive however, may be his ball-carrying.

Matheus Martinelli's carries — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

He's simply an elite ball-carrier. He's capable of breaking opposition lines through carries alone should his passing options be unavailable. He's controlled and elegant in his carrying technique which makes him notably difficult to stop when he gets into rhythm. Using his impressive acceleration, he glides through challenges with what appears to be complete ease and this creates new passing lanes in and of itself.

Whilst Martinelli isn't outstanding defensively, he's more than serviceable in that respect. He's far from being a weak defender and certainly plays his part, especially when considering that Fluminense's heavy possession-based system limits opportunities for calculable defensive actions. That said, he would benefit from having a committed defensive-minded player next to him to allow him to focus more on his on-ball qualities. Regardless, it's always worth having a midfielder who is willing and able to do the defensive work, even when he's not the primary ball-winner.

One concern some have with Martinelli is his inconsistency. He doesn't always put on his best performances and may occasionally appear off the pace. This isn't a particularly common problem, but it is worth acknowledging and keeping an eye on. However, he is still just 21 years old and has plenty of time to iron out the wrinkles in his game and regularly put forward top performances. According to reports in Brazil, the mercurial midfielder has a release clause in the region of €40 million, but he may be available for a smaller fee. He's evidently a very talented player and would improve the technical quality of Manchester United's midfield. He possesses many of the traits and qualities appreciated by Erik ten Hag, therefore he'll doubtless have United scouts keeping a close eye on his performances.

ANDRÉ

Fluminense FC's André

After taking a deep dive into Matheus Martinelli and his potential fit at Old Trafford, it's worth taking a look at his midfield partner, André Trindade da Costa Neto. As mentioned prior, in Fluminense's midfield, Martinelli has more freedom to be adventurous and affect the game in the opposition's half, and that's largely because of André's dedication to his role as a first phase ball progressing midfielder. He's a true first phase specialist and focuses largely on controlling games from deep.

André's touches — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

Unlike Martinelli, André rarely gets involved in possession in the final third, instead focusing on his role as a tempo-controller and deep-lying playmaker. He uses his elite technical security to act as a reliable vessel for Fluminense's buildup structure and is virtually always available to receive a pass and circulate possession.

André is the epitome of a roaming playmaker in the manner in which he moves into various spaces and zones in order to find space to receive the ball, specifically in the first phase.

André heatmap — source: Sofascore

The heatmap shows André's heavy involvement in deep zones where he acts as the main option in buildup. From here, he can regularly receive the ball and dictate the direction and tempo of the game with his reliable technical security and high footballing IQ.

Unsurprisingly, André is an extremely high volume passer and is masterful in helping his side retain possession without becoming stagnant.

André's passing — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

The Brazilian controller tends to keep things simple, as shown by his lower long pass volume statistics, but his accuracy is still as immaculate as it is with all of his other pass types. He could be encouraged to increase his long pass volume as switches of play are a key component of Manchester United's style of play, particularly switches from the left side to the right as these passes often find Antony who likes to hold the width on the right flank. However, even though André specialises in ball retention, he's an adept penetrative passer too, as shown by his passes into the final third.

André pass vs. Fortaleza — source: Wyscout

He possesses an innate sense of calm and patience in his decision-making and this helps in making him such a reliable passer of the ball. He never appears flustered or rushed in possession, which is likely a big reason for the trust his teammates place in him. Evidently, the Ibirataia-born starlet is far from a one-dimensional player and this goes beyond just his passing abilities.

André is a deceptively strong player. He only stands at 1.76m tall, but he has a sturdy frame and strong legs that help him use his overall strength and balance to hold off larger opponents.

André retention vs. Flamengo — source: Wyscout

The strength and press-resistance is massively impressive, and he's still able to pick out a pinpoint progressive pass to an open teammate on the wing. This sequence perhaps best epitomises André's abilities and how these abilities may translate to Manchester United and the needs of the club.

His technical security means that he can invite pressure and spin away from his opponent before progressing the ball. This press-resistance is crucial to a deep-lying playmaker, especially if he were to play in the Premier League where teams tend to press aggressively.

André take-on vs. Flamengo — source: Wyscout

André is remarkably press-resistant and supplements this by being a sensational ball-carrier from deep. He's a powerful runner with impressive acceleration which allows him to create separation from opponents.

André's take-ons + carries — source: FBREF.com (powered by Opta)

*compared with positional peers in next 8 men's competitions per 90

**statistics calculated over the last 365 days

It's been mentioned numerous times, but ball-carrying is a crucial attribute when identifying a midfield addition for Manchester United due to the lack of such a profile at the club at the moment. André would immediately bring that quality to Old Trafford and make the midfield more dynamic and press-resistant, particularly when combined with Casemiro's ball-winning and Bruno Fernandes' chance creation.

Defensively, there is room for André to improve. In Fluminense's midfield, Matheus Martinelli does more of the shuttling and busy work off the ball, so André will need to become more active on that end. He isn't a liability, but he'd need to be a more noticeable presence, especially considering United likely wouldn't dominate possession quite as much as Fluminense currently do. Naturally, he'd benefit greatly playing alongside Casemiro, as is the case with all of the midfielders detailed here, such is the Brazil captain's defensive prowess.

Having a dedicated first phase specialist is particularly important due to Casemiro's occasional late runs into the box, ensuring there is a more disciplined rest defence behind United's advanced players during a given attack. André can still improve his own end-product as he isn't much of a goal threat, but his value in buildup is most important. Regardless, the Brazilian is still just 21 so he has plenty of room for growth and development as a player. That said, he's already such a mature footballer and that's shown by his IQ on the pitch.

As far as cost is concerned, Fulham made a proposal worth approximately €20 million for André in January according to the reliable Fabrizio Romano, therefore a fee in that region would likely be required to agree a deal for the talented midfielder; needless to say, that would be an absolute bargain.

CONCLUSION

As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester United will need to start finalising their plans for reinforcements in various positions. The pursuit of Frenkie de Jong appears increasingly untenable at this point, so the recruitment team should begin thinking outside the box and targeting players who can offer similar value at a fraction of the price, especially considering the club will likely spend the majority of its budget on a centre-forward signing.

When considering all of the necessary attributes, André does look like the best fit to reinforce Erik ten Hag's midfield. He would present an excellent deal financially, the kind of which Manchester United need to become better at making. If the Red Devils do end up securing a deal for the aggressively attacking Jeremie Frimpong at right-back, then a midfielder of Maxime Lopez or André's profile makes even more sense due to the need for a first phase specialist in that regard. Whereas a more reserved right-back signing like Jurriën Timber who tends to sit deeper and distribute may necessitate the need for a more advanced midfielder such as Enzo Le Fée, Orkun Kökçu or Matheus Martinelli who could all operate in a role similar to that of Ryan Gravenberch under Erik ten Hag at Ajax.

Whichever direction Manchester United decide to go in strengthening the squad this summer, the players detailed here all present very intriguing options for the club and show that, crucially, Frenkie de Jong is not the be-all and end-all for Erik ten Hag's side.