In search of players who would slot straight into Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, Manchester United have now reportedly made contact over signing a defender who thrives in a back three.
Man Utd aiming to solve Amorim problem
The Red Devils were finally showing signs of life under Amorim before the international break, with the former Sporting Club boss even nominated for the latest Premier League Manager of the Month award.
Following a four-game unbeaten run which has included a thrashing of Real Sociedad in the Europa League and a well-earned draw against title challengers Arsenal, it’s certainly a deserved nomination.
It’s form that Amorim will hope to see continued after the international break even as his side remain rooted in mid-table, as he looks to salvage what’s left of a disastrous campaign in the final nine games of the season.
Of course, once those nine games are done and dusted, it will be all eyes on the summer transfer window and one that INEOS must get right – starting with handing Amorim one particular defensive target.
According to Messaggeri Veneto in Italy, Manchester United have now made contact to sign Oumar Solet, testing the waters over a potential deal with Serie A side Udinese. The central defender reportedly has a release clause worth £25m and has also attracted the interest of West Ham United.
Related
Solskjaer sold Man Utd star for big-money, now he’s playing like Gyokeres
Manchester United may regret selling a star who’s thrived away from the club.
For such a low price, those at Old Trafford should swoop in when the summer arrives. They may not be in any position to spend big on Europe’s top talents, but hidden gems like Solet should still be considered viable arrivals in the coming months.
At 25 years old, the Frenchman is at the peak of his powers and knows all about playing in a back three.
“Impressive” Solet thrives in a back three
Whilst the likes of Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro have struggled to adapt in Amorim’s back three, Solet would thrive just like he has done at Udinese. Since arriving in Italy during the January transfer window, the Frenchman has helped his side keep five clean sheets in 10 league games at the heart of that system. Losing just twice in that run, his impact has been clear for all to see.
|
League stats 24/25 Per 90 (via FBref) |
Matthijs de Ligt |
Oumar Solet |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
1,999 |
862 |
|
Progressive Passes |
2.34 |
3.33 |
|
Tackles Won |
0.90 |
1.25 |
|
Ball Recoveries |
2.93 |
5.21 |
Dubbed “incredibly impressive” by U23 scout Antonio Mango back in 2023, Solet has only continued his rise ever since and could now earn the biggest move of his career yet courtesy of Manchester United.
The numbers suggest that the 25-year-old would be an instant upgrade on De Ligt, who has been unable to match Solet for progressive passes, tackles and ball recoveries per 90.
At just £25m, Solet could solve one of Amorim’s biggest problem and become one of the bargains of the summer in the process.
