Manchester United are fresh off a big win against Chelsea in the Premier League, after Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro sent United into the lead.
New signing Bryan Mbeumo also starred in the match, but midfield continues to be a problem position for the Red Devils.
Ruben Amorim looked to sign Carlos Baleba over the summer, but his price tag was one United couldn't afford, along with the need for a new goalkeeper.
United are now turning their attention to the January transfer window, with a new midfielder high on their priority list.
Which midfielder is Manchester United prepared to target?
According to Defensa Central, United are looking to make a cash plus player bid for Real Madrid's Federico Valverde.
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Real have identified Kobbie Mainoo as a potential midfield target, and United are prepared to let the young Englishman go if it means getting Valverde.
Amorim and the United hierarchy would be willing to spend €50m, or £43m, on Valverde, in addition to Mainoo.
Mainoo has found himself on the outskirts of the Man United squad this season, with Amorim preferring a combination of Bruno Fernandes and either Casemiro or Manuel Ugarte.
The youngster was reportedly wanting a loan move over the summer, but Amorim wouldn't sanction the move, opting to tell Mainoo he needed to fight for his spot.
Valverde has been with Real since 2018, and he has been crucial in Real's midfield, both offensively and defensively.
His experience would help to bolster United's midfield, with opponents tending to exploit the gaps in United's central areas.
Manchester United news and related links
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