Manchester United’s extended season is starting to take a major toll on the squad. This is especially true in the case of the midfield options for manager Jose Mourinho, who has become increasingly frustrated with his lack of options.

United’s progression into the latter stages of the cup competitions, coupled with the fight for the top four has meant that they have already played a significant number of games compared to the rivals. In order to overcome the deficiency in midfield, the club are reportedly considering a move for Bernardo Silva and Blaise Matuidi. According to Express, Manchester United are considering a £80m double swoop for the duo.

Bernardo Silva plays for Monaco and has been in stunning form this season. The report says that the player would cost around £50million. However, he may not be the final midfielder to arrive at United in the summer, as it has also been said in the report that the Red Devils have also been looking at Paris St Germain midfielder Blaise Matuidi as an option. Despite his transfer fee likely to exceed £30million, United are believed to have made him as a key transfer target once they wrap up the signing of Silva.

Marouane Fellaini’s sending off in the derby against Manchester City leaves United with very little opportunities in the midfield going into the upcoming matches. Even though the need is immediate, Mourinho does not want a repeat of the same next season and wants to strengthen his midfield options – especially after the departure of Morgan Schneiderlin and Bastian Schweinsteiger. The departure of these two players certainly has had its impact on this campaign, as  Michael Carrick and Ander Herrera are the only recognised players capable of playing in the midfield for the next game.

United have a run of four tough games in which they play against Celta de Vigo over two legs in the Europa League semi-finals. They will also have to contend with games against Arsenal and Tottenham in the next two weeks. A season that promised so much at the start of the campaign could realistically produce only the League Cup, if United continue to suffer due to injuries. Luke Shaw had to be substituted in the game against Swansea City during the weekend due to a calf strain.

Hopefully, United do not suffer any more injuries this season and manage to finish in the top-4.