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Manchester United told to pay unholy transfer fee to land versatile La Liga superstar

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 5, 2025 3:34 PM ET

Manchester United will struggle to meet Real Madrid’s asking price for Federico Valverde

Manchester United continue to explore ways to strengthen their midfield. The weaknesses in this area have frustrated supporters. The club’s ongoing interest in improving the squad makes everyone aware that they want to find balance and control in matches that often slip away due to weak midfield play. Amid these efforts, reports now link United with Real Madrid star Federico Valverde.

The European clubs admire him for his tireless energy and versatility. TEAMtalk reports that Madrid will only sell Valverde for his release clause of €1 billion (£871.5 million, $1.07 billion). That fee would make him the most expensive footballer in history, and it should be far beyond the reach of even the richest Premier League clubs. Earlier reports claimed that Madrid once considered selling him for around €80 million, but those talks have taken a different turn as the Spanish giants view him as untouchable.

Even so, Manchester United’s interest makes us realise that they want to fix their midfield imbalance. The current setup under Ruben Amorim still lacks cohesion, especially in transitions where the team often loses control. United have watched Valverde’s progress closely, and his intensity and technical skills should impress them.

TEAMtalk’s report adds that Madrid value him not just for his ability but for his influence in the dressing room, which makes any move unlikely. Despite the huge release clause, United continue to explore options. They are keeping a watchful eye on emerging midfield star Kees Smit. His growing reputation makes him a more realistic alternative.

Why Federico Valverde Would Change Manchester United’s Midfield?

Valverde’s arrival could reshape United’s midfield. His relentless work rate and box-to-box energy would immediately lift a side that often fades in the second half of matches. The Uruguayan links defence and attack with constant movement, and it is something United have missed badly. His defensive awareness adds the solidity needed to protect a backline that often looks exposed. Valverde’s ability to break up play, read danger, and make key tackles could make him a solid replacement for Casemiro.

What makes him stand out further is his comfort on the ball under pressure. He will carry it forward and open passing lanes for creative players like Bruno Fernandes. The Uruguayan’s adaptability allows him to play in different roles, either deep or wide, and it will provide Amorim more tactical freedom.

Beyond his technical ability, his leadership could lift the dressing room’s morale. United need that mix of control, drive, and authority in midfield. While Madrid’s €1 billion valuation makes the move unrealistic, Valverde remains the ideal example of the type of midfielder Manchester United must find. He can transform their rhythm and restore stability at the heart of the team. However, it is unlikely that United will get him.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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