Jaap Stam Urges Manchester United to Target Premier League Midfielder After Ederson Deal

Manchester United legend Jaap Stam has urged his former club to strengthen their midfield further this summer, despite being on the verge of completing a deal for Atalanta star Ederson.

The Red Devils have reportedly agreed a £35 million transfer with the Italian side, with the Brazilian midfielder expected to become the first signing of Michael Carrick’s reign at Old Trafford following the World Cup. However, Stam believes United should not stop there and has identified two additional Premier League midfielders he would welcome at the club.

United are preparing for significant changes in the middle of the park. Veteran midfielder Casemiro is set to depart, while the club are also willing to listen to offers for Manuel Ugarte after an underwhelming spell in Manchester.

West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes has emerged as one of United’s leading transfer targets, with reports suggesting the club are ahead of Arsenal and Real Madrid in the race for his signature. Nevertheless, Stam feels there are other options worth considering.

Speaking about potential additions, the former defender highlighted Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali as standout candidates capable of improving United’s midfield.

Baleba, valued at around £70 million, was strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford last summer. Although the Brighton midfielder endured a difficult campaign, United are believed to remain admirers of the talented youngster and could revisit their interest.

Tonali has also impressed since arriving in the Premier League, with his energy, technical quality and leadership making him one of the division’s most highly regarded midfielders.