Manchester United's next transfer just got even more urgent

If Erik ten Hag was in any way on the fence about signing a new midfielder this summer, then news of Mason Mount's injury might have made the decision for him.

Manchester United confirmed on Tuesday evening that Mount had suffered a 'small complaint' during the 2-0 defeat to Tottenham, meaning he will miss Saturday's game against Nottingham Forest and next week's trip to Arsenal. In all honesty, he was the subject of a few larger misgivings himself.

Mount wasn't the only United player below par in north London, in fact it was Andre Onana who stood out like a sore thumb for just being competent. Marcus Rashford was ineffective upfront again, Antony and Alejandro Garnacho frustrated out wide and Luke Shaw was as poor as he's been for a while.

Want to join our MUFC Pro club for a totally ad-free version of the MEN’s Man United app packed with premium features? Click here

ALSO READ: Mason Mount to miss Arsenal clash with injury

But the biggest concern for Ten Hag, just like against Wolves last Monday, was midfield. Mount was expected to add energy and dynamism to United in that area, and while that may come with time, the balance is way off.

He and Bruno Fernandes have left Casemiro isolated as the sole defensive option, and even when Mount was playing deeper on Saturday he barely laid a glove on Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr. Despite being fit and on the bench, Scott McTominay's role as an unused substitute was further evidence he is not the man for Ten Hag.

United have shown interest in a number of midfielders, and Mount's absence for the next fortnight might just be enough for Ten Hag to push the button. The Dutchman has spent the summer trimming the fat in that area but risks being left without enough muscle to