Joao Neves in, Gallagher decision, Mainoo partner - Man United dream midfield with £140m move

The merry-go-round that is Manchester United's transfer rumour mill continues to rumble on with nearly a new name linked with a move to Old Trafford every day.

On Thursday, Lille striker Jonathan David was a fresh name thrown into the mix as a potential new No.9. On Friday, Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher emerged as a candidate to strengthen Erik ten Hag's midfield.

Anyone that watched United last season quickly realised that they considerably lack a consistent midfield trio throughout. Bruno Fernandes and then Kobbie Mainoo both became consistent names in the middle of the park but there was also something missing.

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Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen and Casemiro did the job when needed but there always seemed to be a lack of world class quality. The task on the club's newly constructed hierarchy's hands is recruiting that quality ahead of next season.

FFP complicates things for United, like it does for many teams in the Premier League, but there is a list of candidates that present a realistic and affordable opportunity. Gallagher, an England international, could be available for just £42m. However, constant links to Joao Neves do counter the Red Devils' required cleverness in the market.

The Benfica star has a reported €120m (£101.5m) release clause in his contract in Portugal but suggestions in Europe have claimed he could be available for lower than €100m (£84.5m). Even then, that would make him United's second most expensive arrival.

It's a predicament and will be no easy ask to get the right combination in midfield. But what