Man United head coach Ruben Amorim facing frustration as Red Devils 'blocked' from making key signing

Manchester United will reportedly find it difficult to sign a new midfielder this summer due to the presence of Casemiro.

The Red Devils were believed to be keen to move Casemiro on during the January transfer window, but there were no takers for the Brazilian, who earns in the region of £300,000 a week at Old Trafford.

The 33-year-old was excellent in Man United's run to the Europa League final, but he is said to be available for the right price this summer, with the Red Devils looking to remove another substantial salary from their wage budget.

Man United head coach Ruben Amorim hinted after the pre-season friendly with Leeds United on Saturday that he wants another player in the middle of midfield.

"We have a lack of pace, especially in the middle of the park, and you can feel that's hard to bring the ball," said Amorim following the goalless draw with their fellow Premier League outfit.

Man United 'will struggle' to sign a midfielder this summer

However, according to the Manchester Evening News, Casemiro's presence at Old Trafford will make it difficult for Man United to sign a central midfielder before the end of the transfer window.

The report claims that the Red Devils need to generate funds in order to sign another player in that area of the field, even though Christian Eriksen's exit has made space in the squad.

Bruno Fernandes was heavily linked with a move away from Man United earlier this summer, but the Portugal international turned down the chance to make a lucrative switch to the Saudi Pro League.

Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer are also options in the middle, in addition to Kobbie Mainoo, although there is currently speculation surrounding the Englishman's future, with Tottenham Hotspur said to be keen.

Man United have a midfield gem at Old Trafford

Amorim may be frustrated in his attempts to sign a new midfielder, but the Portuguese has an outstanding young player in that area of the field at Old Trafford, with Sekou Kone potentially playing a first-team role this season.

Kone had allegedly been earmarked for a loan move to Lausanne Sport during the 2025-26 campaign, but he is now set to remain with the Red Devils, having impressed Amorim and his coaching staff.

The 19-year-old is currently with the Man United squad in the United States, and he is expected to be involved in the Premier League Summer Series, as the team prepare to take on West Ham United, Bournemouth and Everton.