Manchester United look to be lining up a new midfield signing after Ruben Amorim signalled his intention to loan out youngster Toby Collyer, with senior colleague Casemiro identified as a squad player this season.
Amorim has been overseeing a huge rebuild of his squad this summer as he bids to erase the heartache of last season, when the Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League after 18 losses. Marcus Rashford has already departed while four other players have been told to find new clubs.
United have been working on refining their tactics and fitness under Amorim during their pre-season tour in the United States, where they won the Premier League Summer Series, with new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo bedding into the squad.
But while the team have been unbeaten in pre-season so far and look a much improved side, Amorim still isn't satisfied having previously complained that his midfield has "a lack of pace".
And Amorim's actions have hinted that United's next addition could very well be a midfielder, according to the Manchester Evening News,with Collyer set to be sent out on loan.
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Collyer was a squad player under Amorim last season as he was given a chance off the bench in ten games and also earned three starts in cup competitions, but the United boss wants more top-level experience to help the team control games.
There have also been concerns over Manuel Ugarte after he struggled in the 2-2 friendly draw with Everton, failing to deal with their physicality and aggressive press.
Casemiro is also not a player Amorim appears to look at with optimism after he showed signs that he was struggling to keep up with the pace of elite football last season.
This season he will be a squad player after he was not mentioned in Amorim's six-man leadership group for the season, despite being included in it under the reign of Erik ten Hag.
Amorim will be looking to starlet Kobbie Mainoo for the future but for now he will need a suitable option who could play alongside him - or Ugarte.
The club have been linked with moves for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, while Valencia star Javi Guerra is also understood to be a target. Further forward in midfield, United have also been credited with a big-money move for Barcelona's Fermin Lopez.
The biggest priority for Amorim in the transfer market, however, is a new centre forward. The club are in talks to sign Red Bull Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, but face stiff competition from Newcastle, who can offer Champions League football.
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