Real Madrid sets price for Federico Valverde, Manchester United among suitors

Manchester United suffered a 3-4 defeat against Bayern Munich in their return to the Champions League stage. The team is considering selling Scott McTominay and targeting Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde. Real Madrid is open to moving on from Valverde and several Premier League clubs are interested in him. United could benefit from Valverde's work-rate and versatility, but it remains to be seen if a deal can be reached.

Manchester United's return to the Champions League did not go according to plan as they suffered a disappointing 3-4 defeat against Bayern Munich. The team faced several challenges due to injuries, resulting in a limited squad selection. Despite scoring two goals, Casemiro and the rest of the midfield failed to perform at their best.

Casemiro, in particular, has struggled to reach his peak form this season. He has found it difficult to single-handedly protect the defense, especially with Christian Eriksen unable to contribute defensively off the ball. While Eriksen can still make accurate passes, his ability to control games has diminished, highlighting the need for fresh legs alongside Casemiro.

Manchester United is considering the sale of Scott McTominay, who has not made a significant impact in his limited opportunities. Additionally, Donny van de Beek has not even made it into the Champions League squad. As reported by Spanish outlet El Nacional, United is contemplating a move for Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde, as the Spanish club is open to parting ways with the Uruguayan.

Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, may be lacking attacking options but has an abundance of quality midfielders. In their pursuit of reinforcements for the forward line, Real Madrid has decided to put Valverde, a 25-year-old midfielder, up for sale. Valverde did not start in the Champions League game against Union Berlin, and his conduct with Alex Baena, along with the subsequent investigation by La Liga, has not been well-received by the club.

Ancelotti believes Valverde lacks fluidity in his game and sees him more as a false right winger. Real Madrid is aware that Valverde is attracting interest from several Premier League giants, including Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea. His box-to-box midfield profile is highly valued in England. Real Madrid is open to negotiating a transfer for Valverde, provided the offer is close to 80 million euros.

Valverde's goal-scoring ability seemed to decline in the second half of the previous season, suggesting that a change of scenery could benefit his career at this stage. Real Madrid has already sold players like Raphael Varane and Casemiro to Manchester United in the past, making this an opportunity for United to secure another valuable addition.

Valverde's work-rate and versatility would be assets to any club. However, it remains to be seen whether Manchester United, under the ownership of the Glazers, can successfully negotiate a deal while also focusing on strengthening their attacking and defensive options.