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Erik ten Hag is reportedly gearing up for his first transfer battle with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola after identifying a £75millon valued 'leader'.

The Dutchman will take over as Manchester United 's next permanent manager from the end of the season. He is expected to bring about a major squad overhaul following a dreadful campaign which has left United without a Champions League place for next year.

One of the main areas that needs a rapid rebuild is in midfield, with the Red Devils' options in that position proven to be lightweight. Nemanja Matic will leave at the end of his contract this summer, while neither Fred nor Scott McTominay have convinced this campaign.

While he still has three games left in charge of Ajax, Ten Hag has already turned his attention to how to solve that midfield issue. According to the Daily Star, one of the players he has his eye on his Southampton star James Ward-Prowse.

The Englishman is said to be one of two central midfielders on United's shopping list, having impressed with his consistent all-action displays for the Saints. His contract at St Mary's Stadium still has four years left to run, though it is stated he could opt to depart earlier in a bid to boost his 'ambitions' of playing for England.

They are facing competition from Manchester City though, with Guardiola described as being a 'huge admirer'. The