Man Utd news: £100m summer transfer trick repeat eyed as Ryan Giggs makes demand

Manchester United news round-up as Ryan Giggs gives his verdict on the club's midfielder search, which could reach a quick conclusion this summer

Manchester United have another eight days before they resume their challenge for a Champions League spot. Following the international break, the FA Cup quarter-finals are taking centre stage this weekend, meaning United do not play again until the home clash with Leeds United on Monday, April 13.

United are well-placed to return to European football's top table after making impressive progress under interim boss Michael Carrick, who has thrust himself into contention to land the job on a permanent basis. While various top-tier managers will become available this season, a top-four finish would aid Carrick's chances.

Third-place United sit a point ahead of Aston Villa and five clear of Liverpool, with a top-five finish likely to be enough to secure Champions League football. Here's a round-up of the latest news from Old Trafford…

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Giggs transfer plea

Bolstering United's midfield is a top priority for the club over the summer. With Casemiro leaving at the end of the season and Manuel Ugarte potentially on his way, several new middlemen could arrive.

One of the many players repeatedly linked is Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, who has received Ryan Giggs' seal of approval. The club legend told Webby & O'Neill: "I always like a left-footer in the team, so I wouldn't argue with Wharton.

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"I think he looks like a Man United player. Somebody who can handle the ball, passes forward, runs forward, Premier League experience."

Giggs also spoke highly of Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, saying: "Anderson, I like as well. Solid player, plays every game. I can see a Wharton and Mainoo, an Anderson and Wharton. I can see all of those scenarios.

"It just depends, [because] British players are a lot of money and what we're able to spend. But we need two midfielders"

United could repeat transfer trick

United look set to make an early approach for Anderson this summer to try and secure a cheaper transfer fee, per the Sun. The former Newcastle star is another of the midfielders to be linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Manchester City, Arsenal and Bayern Munich have also been mentioned as potential destinations, with United keen to avoid becoming embroiled in a bidding war for a player already rated near the £100m mark.

With Anderson expected to be a key part of England's World Cup plans, his value could soar if he performs well in North America. Therefore, United would be savvy to employ a strategy witnessed last summer by acting swiftly to secure their targets.

The club reached a £62.5million agreement with Wolves for Matheus Cunha as the transfer window opened, before striking a £71m deal with Brentford for Bryan Mbeumo. Both have gone on to have strong first seasons at Old Trafford. Acting quickly and decisively could be the key to snaring Anderson.

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