Man Utd now leading race to sign £15m Sunderland star ahead of Chelsea

Manchester United are poised to bolster their midfield department during the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils have already announced that Casemiro will depart at the end of his contract on June 30.

The club are set to pursue a marquee replacement. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is one of the top names on their radar, alongside Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba.

Apart from the marquee signing, United could also recruit a second midfielder as part of the spending spree. Manuel Ugarte has failed to meet expectations and could be sold.

The Red Devils have been monitoring Sunderland star Noah Sadiki alongside Chelsea, and they have now been handed a boost with Champions League qualification almost secured.

United have an edge over Chelsea in Sadiki’s pursuit

Sadiki signed for the Black Cats from Union Saint-Gilloise for just £15 million last summer. He has proved a brilliant acquisition and has formed a fine partnership with Granit Xhaka in the heart of the midfield.

The DR Congo international has averaged two tackles and three recoveries per league game, while winning four duels. His tireless work rate and high pressing have been other positives.

Still 21, Sadiki has had a smooth transition to Premier League football after arriving from Belgium. He appears likely to pursue a bigger challenge away from the Black Cats at the end of the season.

Journalist Sacha Tavolieri claims that United have an edge over Chelsea due to Champions League football.

United are 10 points ahead of Chelsea, who are sixth in the Premier League. The Blues also find themselves seven points behind Liverpool for the final Champions League spot.

Hence, United are pretty much assured of playing in Europe’s elite competition next term, and it remains to be seen whether they make a formal approach for Sadiki later this summer.

Sunderland will no doubt want a premium fee for their prized asset. United may have to offer something close to £45-50m to test the Black Cats’ resolve over the Anderlecht graduate.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .