Manchester United look to be eager to improve their midfield line before the beginning of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign after witnessing Sofyan Amrabat return to Fiorentina. It now appears that they are looking into the possibility of signing Burnley midfielder Sander Berge to improve their squad.
Manchester United Identify Sander Berge as Midfield Target
Why Are Manchester United Interested in Berge?
The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell has reported that the Red Devils have had contact and started talks with the representatives of the Norwegian midfielder over a potential summer transfer. This comes after it was reported that they had cooled their interest in PSG “star” Manuel Ugarte and are now looking into potential alternatives to the Uruguayan midfielder.
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Whitewell hints that Burnley are open to selling the 26-year-old midfielder, who was part of their relegation squad from the 2022/23 Premier League campaign. It’s stated that Berge is liked by those at Old Trafford as he ranked high in a number of key statistic metrics last season, which included dribbles and pressured passing accuracy. The 26-year-old was the tenth fastest player in the Premier League last season despite standing at an intimidating 6’5″ and fits the criteria that United are looking for as a midfielder who can play in that deeper number six role.
Where Can Berge Fit in at United?
Berge has plenty of experience of playing in English football, having played for Sheffield United and Burnley. He’s played in both the EFL Championship and the Premier League, playing in 37 Premier League games for Burnley last season. He only had three goal contributions (one goal, two assists), but it’s his versatility at being able to play both as a number eight or as a number six in the midfield that has attracted the Red Devils’ attention.
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United are likely to be eyeing the “rock” to be an alternative for Casemiro in the defensive midfield role, or someone who can also slot in a bit higher up the pitch if necessary. Berge, who was hailed for his “unbelievable” performance to help Sheffield United defeat West Bromwich Albion last year and help them get promoted to the 2023/24 Premier League, has been playing in England since 2020 and has the physical and technical traits to be a solid addition to Erik ten Hag’s squad.
