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#3 Saúl Ñíguez
A true representative of the breed of Diego Simeone players. Embracing his ultra defensive mentality and commitment to a quick counter attack since the inception of his career, makes Saúl Ñíguez an attractive option for Manchester United.
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For reasons tactical and commercial, Manchester United have a definite interest in the midfielder from Atletico Madrid. Throughout his time at Atletico, Saúl has proven himself capable of commanding the midfield - be it with his ability to put in strong tackles or winning countless aerial duels.
Two areas of the game where he stands out from the rest of the midfielders who regularly play for the Rojiblancos with him, is him ranking in the top 94th percentile across the Spanish competition when it comes to taking over possession aerially.
However, with considerable interest from Spanish giants Barcelona and European champions Chelsea, Manchester United will need to act swiftly if they are to get his signature - more so as Atletico Madrid are open to allowing a loan move for the player.
#2 Wilfred Ndidi
A pretty accurate example of a cream of the crop player when it comes to finding commanding defensive midfielders in the Premier League. Wilfred Ndidi is a player who is presently on the radar of many top clubs across Europe.
All thanks to the capable Leicester City recruitment strategy, they stand to make an enormous profit on the player they signed for just £17 million from Genk.
Ndidi has numbers in the top 95th percentile across players in Europe (according to fbref) when it comes to the responsibilities of a defensive midfielder - making tackles, pressing for possession, putting in blocks and constantly vying for interceptions.
Wilfred Ndidi stands out as an exceptional performer while evaluating the game from a statistical perspective.
#1 Declan Rice
Proven defensive aptitude and an immaculate holding ability when in possession of the ball makes Declan Rice a coveted midfielder for the top clubs in England. Even more so after his splendid performances for the Three Lions at Euros 2021 and a solid domestic season for West Ham.
With a relative advantage in negotiations with West Ham over an imminent Jesse Lingard sale, Manchester United could choose to solve their defensive-midfield problems with the signing of Rice who would allow those in front, such as Pogba and Fernandes, to play with greater freedom and protect a sometimes-vulnerable United backline from breakaway opposition attacks.
Admirers at United do feel the need to recruit a defensive midfielder with Rice’s dominant physicality and leadership on the pitch. However, Chelsea retain a significant interest in the player.
Next summer may finally be a turning point when Rice decides to move to one of the top clubs who actively compete in European competitions.
