Man United now plot bid for "superb" £13m-rated gem, imagine him and Ten Hag – opinion

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Stuttgart midfielder Orel Mangala as they scan the market for options who can bolster their engine room.

That is according to a report from the Daily Express, who claimed that the 24-year-old’s agent Mehmet Eser has confirmed United’s eagerness to sign his client.

As per the report, it is said that Erik ten Hag is looking to add to his midfield, with Nemanja Matic just one of several departures set to occur over the summer.

As per the Daily Express, the Belgian can leave the Bundesliga club for as little as €15m (£13m) in the summer.

Ever since the departure of Daley Blind in 2018, United have lacked genuine versatility in their ranks, but they could make up for it with the prospective signing of Mangala.

The Belgian, who has been dubbed “superb” by journalist Josh Bunting, is capable of playing anywhere in midfield but has played centrally for most of his 28 matches for Stuttgart this term, with 18 appearances from that position.

Despite averaging just 32.1 passes per game, Mangala is clinical in moving the ball forward, with 1.41 key passes per match. He has also demonstrated his ability to thrive in an attacking overload, with his match average of 2.28 touches in the attacking penalty area an impressive return considering his defensive-minded approach.

With one goal and three assists across his 28 appearances in the Bundesliga this season, Mangala has adjusted well to a slightly higher position in midfield and has demonstrated his consistency as a utility player across the board.

With Ten Hag’s tactical, intricate and flexible approach to football, players who are capable of occupying multiple positions make them more well-rounded and, as such, they become