Arsenal
/https%3A%2F%2Fsportsmole-media-prod.s3.gra.io.cloud.ovh.net%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F02%2Fimago1060806691-698a0d27cf82d015974945.jpg?w=360&resize=360,180&ssl=1 "Next Watford manager: Edward Still confirmed as new Hornets head coach")
/https%3A%2F%2Fsportsmole-media-prod.s3.gra.io.cloud.ovh.net%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F02%2Fns-photo-badge-email-sportmole-15-6984699044396165427117.jpg?w=360&resize=360,180&ssl=1 "Chelsea 2-2 Leeds United: Liam Rosenior admits Blues making “poor decisions in key moments” after “ridiculous” Lilywhites comeback"){kind=icon}
Manchester United scouts have taken a shock liking to a world star as they search to bolster their midfield within the new yr, in line with an insider.
The Purple Devils are anticipated to be busy within the 2026 winter window, with Ruben Amorim’s facet considered within the high-profile hunt for Antoine Semenyo, although neighbours Manchester Metropolis seem like heavy favourites.
Given there are long-standing rumours linking the likes of Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba to the north-west, it appears as if Amorim is simply too conscious that upgrading the midfield is one thing that might be addressed in January.
Most Learn on The Switch Tavern
Previous Trafford scouts have apparently stumbled upon one other effective potential addition to their comparatively threadbare midfield – an issue exacerbated by Bruno Fernandes’ latest damage away at Aston Villa.
United are admirers of Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios
In keeping with TEAMtalk switch insider Dean Jones, United’s scouts have been extraordinarily impressed with Atletico Madrid centre-midfielder Pablo Barrios, taking a shine to the 22-year-old who has featured in all bar one in all their top-flight matches, beginning in 15 out of 17 in whole.
It seems that the Spain worldwide was not the Purple Devils’ meant goal from the Metropolitano, as Conor Gallagher was initially of curiosity.
Jones believes that the curiosity within the former Chelsea ace led to Barrios catching the attention of the United recruitment crew.
He stated: “I believe the curiosity could have even come as a consequence of Conor Gallagher. However, no matter how they ended up watching him, he’s spoken about glowingly at a number of golf equipment, and United are one in all them.”
Nonetheless, Jones feels a profitable strategy for the midfielder is just not precisely probably with no considerably interesting bundle.
“Atleti received’t wish to lose him as a result of he has change into crucial of their midfield, however I believe there might be some potential for them to have a battle on their palms to maintain Barrios throughout 2026.”
One issue which may work towards Manchester United is the value concerned. Barrios is assumed to have a launch clause of €120m (£105m), although it has additionally been said {that a} cheaper price might be negotiated.
At 22, you’ll think about Atletico could be after a hefty price, particularly given his present position in Diego Simeone’s facet.
Different targets like Wharton and Baleba are each 21 years of age, so you’ll be able to see how Barrios would match the profile of United’s subsequent huge midfield arrival.
As per the desk above, it’s clear that each one three have their strengths, with Baleba excelling in interceptions per 90, Barrios claiming much more profitable take-ons, and Wharton edging Barrios in actions resulting in pictures.
From this small collection of information, Barrios seems to be most like an all-rounder, although given the gamers’ ages, any one in all them can blossom additional at any level, leaving golf equipment like United with a call to make.
Negotiating for an acceptable price is one other battle altogether, and including Barrios to the listing of star midfielders on United’s shortlist is just not going to make their job of choosing the right man any simpler.
