Christian Eriksen could solve Manchester United's problem position with a small change

The prospect of Manchester United failing to sign a defensive-midfielder this summer is a scenario that the supporters will not bare to think about.

It soon became clear last season that the addition of a world-class midfield-enforcer in this summer's transfer window would be essential to any improvements being made at Old Trafford under new manager Erik ten Hag. Instead, United have placed Barcelona ace Frenkie de Jong and soon-to-be free agent Christian Eriksen at the top of their midfield wish list.

De Jong, who has been the subject of interest from United for more than a month now, is not a true holding midfielder by any stretch; he loves nothing more than playing between the lines and looking to pick a forward pass. Eriksen, meanwhile, is a midfield architect, renowned for creating chances by the lorry load and scoring goals from the attacking-midfield position.

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Neither of them, therefore, would give United the bite and defensive nous they are craving in midfield. De Jong, at times, has played as a sitter in the No.6 berth, but it would be a waste of his talent to task him with stopping attacks at United; they need him to get on the front foot, dictate games and pick a pass.

That means De Jong would need to be joined in midfield — should United not land a defensive-midfielder this summer — by either Scott McTominay or Fred. While neither of them are at the level United want to try and reach, Fred, in particular, would be a good option to deploy alongside the Dutchman because of his energy levels and constant running. He is also capable of producing a tackle.

Therefore, should Fred and De Jong team up and form the base of United's