Man Utd have missed chance to sign perfect Casemiro partner to silence Carragher

Manchester United reportedly had a solid chance at signing Joao Palhinha before opting for Sofyan Amrabat on deadline day, a decision which now may prove Jamie Carragher right this season. Carragher called out Casemiro following United’s uncomfortable victory over Wolves to start the season, stating the Brazilian will be more “exposed” this year.

The Liverpool icon claimed that Erik ten Hag’s midfield unit looked disjointed with Mason Mount playing alongside Casemiro. Using clips of United’s defeat to Tottenham, Carragher pointed out how Casemiro was left isolated on too many occasions.

United were seemingly aware of the need to improve their options in this area ahead of the transfer deadline. Amrabat had long been linked with a move to Old Trafford as someone who could come in and bolster United’s defensive unit immediately.

The midfielder enjoyed a stellar World Cup campaign with Morocco last Winter and helped Fiorentina reach the finals in both the Coppa Italia and Europa Conference League.

But United spent the final few weeks of the transfer window trying to raise cash through player sales as they considered alternatives to Amrabat. According to The Athletic, Palhinha was a top target for the Red Devils and the midfielder was ‘keen on the idea of a move too’.

Given Palhinha’s Premier League experience, the Portuguese star would have arguably been a better option to feature alongside Casemiro. He excelled last season for Fulham and was a huge part of their success in finishing 10th in the league.

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Fulham’s asking price proved too much for those interested in signing him, but Palhinha has already proven his worth to Fulham this season with stellar displays against Arsenal and Tottenham. A partnership featuring Palhinha and Casemiro would have immediately strengthened United’s midfield and potentially silenced Carragher’s concerns about the Brazilian being exposed.

Amrabat may well prove to be an astute piece of business as they’ll have the option to reassess next year when more finances could be available. But there will be question marks on how Amrabat settles into life in the Premier League.

A loan deal also suggests that Amrabat will be more of a squad player than someone likely to take Mount or Christian Eriksen’s place alongside Casemiro. If that’s the case, then United may be back to square one in midfield with Casemiro coming under pressure once again.

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