Man Utd target Spanish box-to-box midfielder with 'verbal agreement in place'

Manchester United have targeted Valencia’s Javi Guerra, a 22-year-old box-to-box midfielder.

Reports indicate United are close to securing a verbal agreement with Guerra, who has rejected a contract renewal with Valencia, signaling his openness to a new challenge.

With a €100 million release clause, negotiations suggest a fee of €24-30 million could suffice due to Valencia’s financial constraints, with United willing to offer around €25 million (£21.6m).

Guerra, a versatile No. 8, has impressed in La Liga with 89 senior appearances for Valencia, scoring eight goals and providing four assists since his 2022 first-team debut.

His 6ft 2in frame, combined with technical finesse, quick feet, and long-range shooting, makes him a fit for Ruben Amorim’s high-tempo 3-4-2-1 system.

Guerra’s ability to cover ground, averaging nearly seven ball recoveries per 90 minutes, and his intelligent positioning add defensive solidity and attacking thrust, ideal alongside Bruno Fernandes or Manuel Ugarte.

United’s interest in Guerra dates back to 2023, when Erik ten Hag targeted him, only for Valencia to rebuff advances, citing his “enormous potential.”

Now, with Christian Eriksen gone and Casemiro’s future uncertain, Amorim sees Guerra as a long-term midfield solution, especially as Kobbie Mainoo struggles to adapt to his tactics.

However, competition from AC Milan, Aston Villa, and Atlético Madrid complicates matters, with Valencia set to offer Guerra a new deal to keep him.

Despite his preference to hear Valencia’s offer, posts on X and reports suggest Guerra leans toward United, attracted by their rebuilding project, reported Marca.

United’s recent signings, like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, show intent, but financial constraints may require offloading players to fund Guerra’s transfer.

If completed, Guerra could be a transformative addition, bringing energy and versatility to United’s midfield.