Man Utd plotting £48m winter transfer swoop for Everton midfielder Amadou Onana after rapid Casemiro decline – but will face stiff competition from Barcelona

Amadou Onana of Everton is apparently the target of Manchester United’s £48 million ($61 million) transfer bid, although Barcelona will likely put up a strong fight.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Belgian midfielder, who has been praised widely since joining Everton, is reportedly the Red Devils’ and Barcelona’s top transfer target, according to Foot Mercato.

Since Casemiro has been struggling with fitness in the first half of the season, and Onana has been performing well in the Premier League, it is thought that United’s scouts are closely monitoring Onana’s play. Manager Erik ten Hag has called for more midfield players.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Barcelona are also keen on Onana and have reportedly established contact with the player’s representatives in an attempt to secure his services.

The knee injury to Gavi has left Xavi thin on options in midfield and the manager is eager to make a quality addition in January.

However, for the cash-strapped Catalan side, Everton’s hefty asking price of “around €55m” is deterring them from an immediate pursuit.

DID YOU KNOW?

United may try to take advantage of Barcelona’s delay and make an early move for Onana, who they think might be a useful addition in the middle of the park alongside Sofyan Amrabat, who is on loan from Fiorentina.

WHAT NEXT?

Despite the interest from top European clubs, it is suggested that Onana is likely to stay at Everton until the end of the season, which may force United boss Erik ten Hag to look elsewhere.

The Toffees are in no hurry to part ways with the midfielder as he is tied to a long-term contract until 2027 and his recent performances under Sean Dyche further spur them to hold on to their prized asset.

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