Manchester United will have a clear goal to do in the transfer season regardless of who is appointed as the club's next permanent manager this summer. That task will be to buy a new central midfielder.

United are in desperate need of a new center-back and are about to enter a transfer window that will likely see Paul Pogba go on a free transfer, while Donny van de Beek, who had a poor loan term at Everton, may also ponder his options.

By the conclusion of the season, it is possible that United may require more than one new central midfielder, but the question of who those players should be continues to split the club's supporters. Anyone who steps into the role of United's defensive midfielder must be able to give strength to the team's defensive line while also possessing silky passing ability to initiate attacks from deep. It will be a difficult effort to combine the two characteristics.

The writers for the Manchester Evening News United looked into finding a solution, but they couldn't agree on who should be in charge.

Despite the fact that Manchester United had a great transfer window in the previous summer, there was always the impression that they needed a central midfielder, and that feeling has been confirmed correct this season. While they do require at least a couple of midfielders, the attention should be on finding someone who can operate a little deeper in the midfield.

Declan Rice is a good fit, but Manchester United's dismal season and inevitable exit from the Champions League may complicate any potential transfers. At Chelsea, Rice is a popular player, but the club's present problems could play into United's hands, as he has recently looked like the most talented midfielder on the field at Old Trafford.

Borussia Dortmund are unlikely to allow Jude Bellingham to go in the same transfer window as Erling Haaland. There's no harm in putting the player through his paces, and it would at the very least demonstrate to him that United is still interested in signing him, whether this summer or next year.

Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham is a target for Manchester United.

Although a major exodus may mean that other positions take equal priority, it is clear that United need a central midfielder this summer. A midfielder who is at ease in possession from deep positions, who can manage the tempo of the game, and who can work well with players like Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho, who are expected to become regulars in the attack is required.

Ruben Neves' contract with Wolves expires in 2023, and the Red Devils should be on the lookout for a way to sign him this summer. Neves brings Premier League knowledge, excellent passing vision, and the ability to take games by the scruff of the neck to his new club, Manchester United.

It's possible that United will need to add another defensive midfielder of the wrecking variety, but Neves should be given top priority when they reconfigure their midfield for next season.

Rich Fay 

There is a need for a midfielder who can link up play between defense and attack while also protecting a weak backline, no matter who takes command of United in the future. In order to be the best, United must first acquire the top players. A move for N'Golo Kante would undoubtedly be interpreted as a signal of intent.

This summer's uncertainty at Chelsea may lead to a mass exodus of players, including seasoned midfielder Kante. He is a proven world-class player in the Premier League, and he is capable of performing all of the dirty labour required by the United squad.

An attacking player like Kante would allow Fred to push higher up the pitch, thereby replacing Paul Pogba, while also easing the strain on Scott McTominay and allowing him to become a more valuable member of the bench.

Despite the fact that it appears to be fantasy football-related, it is certainly worth asking the question.