Man United told a player in their squad can save them millions amid Amadou Onana transfer links

Former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre insists Amadou Onana would not provide a significant upgrade on Scott McTominay.

United have been linked with a move for Onana in recent weeks, with some reports going as far as to suggest an approach has been made. Erik ten Hag is open to further signings this summer and has midfield reinforcements at the top of his list of priorities.

Fred joined Fenerbahce in a €15million deal last week while Donny van de Beek also looks set to move on. Scott McTominay has been the subject of a £30m bid from West Ham, but Silvestre believes the Scotland international can provide a physical presence in midfield and save United millions.

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“I understand why, profile-wise, this is a player they are looking for," Silvestre told Bettingexpert of Onana. "But when you have Scott McTominay, I don’t see what Onana will add to United if you want to step up and challenge for the title.

“He’s not a player United should be chasing. Physically, he and McTominay have the same profile, and it’s not an upgrade, so I don’t think it makes sense unless you’re looking for back-up.”

Everton would be expected to demand at least double the £33m they spent on Onana last summer, owing in part to the inflated price of defensive midfielders this summer. Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo both moved deals worth over £100m this summer, joining Arsenal and Chelsea respectively, while Romeo Lavia looks set to join Mauricio Pochettino's side in a deal worth £60m.

While United were not actively working on the