Manchester United still have their eyes set on Javi Guerra
Last season turned out to be a bitter experience for Manchester United. Finishing 15th in the Premier League points table, losing the Europa League final to Tottenham, and then being knocked out of any European competition for the next season were tough for fans like us to swallow. Ruben Amorim was appointed manager mid-season, but he too was unable to stop the team from declining. Now, in preparation for the new season, the club have made several big decisions, and their activity in the transfer market tells a different story.
The pain of last season has shaken the club. Rasmus Hojlund’s form has been far below expectations, and the lack of creativity in midfield has been evident. Even after high-profile signings like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in the summer, there is a feeling that the team still need more strength. Bringing in Benjamin Sesko was a necessary move, but the lack of midfield depth in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system is still evident.
Eyes on Javi Guerra
Recently, there have been reports that United are focusing on Carlos Baleba and Valencia’s Javi Guerra. Baleba is said to be worth over £100 million, which could be too much for the club at the moment. In such a situation, Give Me Sport reports that the name of Javi Guerra has again come up as an alternative to Baleba, whose performance in Valencia was excellent last season. It was earlier reported that he had agreed on personal terms to play at Old Trafford. Due to Valencia’s financial problems, his deal can be done for only £21 million, whereas earlier his value was estimated at £86 million.
Guerra brings energy and dynamism in the midfield. He is effective in contributing to both defensive cover and attack. The Spaniard’s positioning sense, ball recovery ability and skill of moving the ball forward quickly can make him an important weapon in Amorim’s system.
Opinion:
Casemiro is now far from his peak. His speed and ability to withstand pressure are not the same as before. Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system requires two central midfielders to run relentlessly, be quick in their passing and manage the transition from defence to attack. Guerra could bring freshness and balance to this role. The 22-year-old is not only adept at retaining possession of the ball but also capable of pushing the team forward.
However, United must be cautious. Transfer funds are limited, and without selling players like Antony, Jadon Sancho or Alejandro Garnacho, it will be difficult to go for new deals. The club will first need to complete their departures. Investing in a player like Guerra could be the right move, but only if the team show the courage to balance their squad.