Erik ten Hag may not need to spend above his budget if he is to create a top four challenging squad.
Midfielders are a primary target for the new Manchester United boss but he is also after attacking reinforcements. Benfica striker Darwin Nunez has been touted for an Old Trafford move but Ten Hag may have a much cheaper alternative.
While he may not be a ready-made backup for the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho might get the nod to be a part of the first-team squad next season. The Under-18s Player of the Season made his first two senior appearances for United last term and netted twice in the FA Youth Cup final win.
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His quality has been praised by many but youth coach Travis Binnion pointed to his mentality after the aforementioned trophy lift. “That boy could be in any stadium in the world and he wouldn’t care,” he said.
“That’s his make-up. A few of them are like that and that’s why they are going to have good careers.”
United heroes Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney possessed that fearlessness at an early age. It seems to be an ingredient that most world-class footballers have as teenagers.
Garnacho, 17, knocked in two in front of a near-capacity Old Trafford crowd in the Youth Cup final, which will have done wonders for his confidence and growth. He displayed an unmoved mindset during the game and dealt with the pressure well.
The attacker netted 17 academy goals last term so knows where the net is. He would be a useful asset to Ten Hag, a man has a reputation for getting the best out of youngsters.
A long run with the first-team squad will only enhance his qualities but Ten Hag can still use his cool frame of mind as a wildcard in matches that need fresh legs and energy to beat tiring defences.
Garnacho may be a little way off his first senior start just yet but Ten Hag can nurture his assets to the point where he becomes an ample supporting act for the frontline in the latter part of next season. His resilient mindset will make him a good fit under Ten Hag.
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