Erik Ten Hag considering move for £18m Ajax midfielder capable of playing two positions

The Red Devils, who are definitely attempting to rebuild their playing squad, are now led by new manager Erik Ten Hag.

After finishing last season with a whimper, the 20-time league champions limped over the line and qualified for next season’s Europa League — albeit only due to West Ham’s final-day defeat.

Following a disastrous couple of seasons, the Red Devils must now work their magic in the transfer market, not just signing new players but also offloading those who have outstayed their welcome.

Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard, both midfielders, are poised to leave the club next month after failing to extend their contracts.

As a result, the center-back and defensive midfield duties are thought to be on the top of the club’s summer wishlist, and according to recent sources, Ten Hag may have already identified a player capable of filling both roles.

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According to a recent story from The Athletic, the former Ajax manager is a great fan of versatile defender Edson Alvarez.

Ten Hag, who has previously managed the Mexico international, could explore a move for the 24-year-old, who is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also slot in at center-back if needed.

Speaking to Ajax’s official website last year about his desire to please the Dutch manager, Alvarez said: “Knowing that he wants to keep me is crucial to me.” I’m delighted at this club, with my teammates and the people around me, and with the life, I’m living here.”

Although the young Mexican has three years left on his contract with Ajax and appears content in Amsterdam, with the Red Devils understood to have a budget of £120m, it goes without saying that if the Premier League giants wanted to, they could muster the funds required to prise the midfielder away from Holland.