Manchester United might know their perfect Nemanja Matic replacement

Erik ten Hag's big challenge this summer is that he must not only improve a Manchester United side that has underperformed so poorly this season, but he must also improve it while replacing a cluster of players who will leave for free once the transfer window opens.

Signing a new midfielder was labelled the 'biggest' issue by club sources even before Nemanja Matic made it public that he would leave at the end of the season, while there was always an acceptance that Paul Pogba would not be signing a new deal at the club.

In an ideal world, United would sign two top-class central midfielders this summer to compensate for those two exits, with Donny van de Beek and James Garner both contenders to bolster the squad with improved roles under the new manager next season.

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It doesn't always work that way, though.

United are still exploring a possible move for Frenkie de Jong this summer, but such a move is complicated given the uncertain future of the club under his former manager and the fact he doesn't exactly want to leave Barcelona.

A deal for Kalvin Phillips was also being worked on, though that has become a lot more difficult to complete after Leeds remained in the Premier League on the final day. The Leeds-born battler is also believed to be of interest to Manchester City, a move which makes far more sense for him.

Declan Rice is still somewhat of a dream acquisition but would take a budget-blowing club-record fee this summer and West Ham are under absolutely no pressure to sell him.

It means United might have to get creative if they are to address their midfield issues this summer, and Chelsea star N'Golo Kante is certainly one player worthy of