Manchester United are reportedly interested in Mario Lemina and have submitted an enquiry to Southampton to scour the prospect of signing the midfielder.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been looking to add to his midfield options in the current transfer window, with nothing materializing so far. But, that could very well change in the coming days, with Sky Sports claiming that Manchester United have submitted an enquiry to Southampton for Mario Lemina.
The news comes days after reports emerged of Lemina wanting an exit from Southampton, with the report adding that the midfielder had relayed his wish to the club and manager Ralph Hasenhuttl. There are rumours that the Premier League midfielder could be available for somewhere around £18 million.
Mario Lemina arrived at Southampton from Juventus in 2017 and has since cemented his place as one of the most underrated midfielders in the Premier League. The Gabon international was one of the first names on the team sheet at St. Mary’s in the 2018-19 campaign, before an abdominal injury sidelined him for a chunk of the second half of the season.
But, his form and consistency was enough to generate interest in his services, with Sky Sports claiming that Manchester United are interested and have submitted an enquiry for the Southampton star. The rumour does make sense, especially with it emerging a day after Nemanja Matic was linked with a move to Serie A.
Predominantly a holding midfielder, Lemina could be the perfect replacement for Matic. The 25-year-old would provide longevity in the position and holds more experience in the Premier League and at top clubs compared to Sean Longstaff, who is another player linked with a move to Manchester United.
That the midfielder has played in three different leagues is also a testament to his adaptability while his work-rate has been evident in his displays for all his clubs to date.
The most pivotal motivating factor for Manchester United though, could be the potential £18 million price tag that is doing the rounds. The aforementioned price for an established Premier League midfielder with three years left on his current contract is unheard of in the current transfer market.
Compare this to what Newcastle United are demanding for Sean Longstaff and it is crystal clear as to why Manchester United should pursue a deal for Lemina. There are murmurs of interest from Arsenal as well, which could be down to the price tag. But, United could provide a better financial package along with the option of being part of a new long-term project.
No reason why we cannot see Mario Lemina become a Red Devil in the current transfer window. All down to United’s intent.
