Manchester United is looking for a new midfielder to fill the gap left by Casemiro, who is set to leave Old Trafford this summer. The club has identified a specific target to bolster its midfield and maintain its competitive edge.

After a lackluster season in Erik ten Hag's midfield, the departure of the Brazilian legend Casemiro has become a pressing issue. The 32-year-old's exit has prompted United to search for a worthy successor. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils have their eyes on Edson Alvarez, a standout player from West Ham United.

A defensive midfielder, Alvarez has caught Ten Hag's attention due to their previous collaboration at Ajax. The 26-year-old Mexican player had often been linked with Manchester United during his time in the Eredivisie. Last summer, Alvarez joined West Ham on a £35 million ($44.4m) deal, where he shined as Declan Rice's replacement, impressing many with his performances.

Edson Alvarez: A promising addition to Manchester United's midfield

If Manchester United manage to secure Alvarez this summer, he will be the fourth former Ajax player to join under Ten Hag's management since 2022. The other three players, Antony, Lisandro Martinez, and Andre Onana, have already made their mark at Old Trafford, demonstrating the Dutch manager's trust in his former players.

Ten Hag sees Alvarez's potential move to Manchester United as a strategic decision. His defensive skills and familiarity with Ten Hag's style of play could provide the stability and strength needed in United's midfield. Moreover, Alvarez's experience in the Premier League with West Ham has prepared him well for the challenges he might face at a top club like Manchester United.

Alvarez’s journey from Mexico to the Premier League has been impressive. Starting his career at Club América in Liga MX, he quickly made a name for himself with his solid defensive play and ability to control the midfield. His performances caught the eye of Ajax, where he continued to develop under Ten Hag's guidance. His time in the Eredivisie showcased his versatility and tactical awareness, making him a key player for Ajax.

When Alvarez moved to West Ham, there were questions about how he would adapt to the physicality and pace of the Premier League. However, he answered those questions with strong performances, proving himself as a reliable and tough midfielder. His ability to step into the role left by Declan Rice and perform at a high level speaks volumes about his quality and potential.

Looking ahead

The addition of Alvarez could significantly impact Manchester United's overall performance. His defensive capabilities would provide much-needed cover for the backline, allowing more freedom for creative players to push forward. This balance between defense and attack is crucial for Ten Hag’s style of play, which relies on solid defensive foundations to support dynamic offensive movements.

Moreover, Alvarez's familiarity with Ten Hag's coaching methods and tactical setups would likely result in a smoother transition and quicker integration into the team. This would be a crucial factor, especially given the competitive nature of the Premier League and the high expectations placed on Manchester United.

However, any transfer involving Alvarez would likely have to wait until the end of Mexico's Copa America campaign. Jamie Lozano, the national team coach, has called up Alvarez for the tournament, which means Manchester United fans might have to wait a bit longer to see if the deal materializes.