Manchester United have demonstrated their ambition in the transfer market this summer, with new owners INEOS investing heavily to sign promising defender Leny Yoro from Lille and striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. After a disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season, United salvaged their campaign with an FA Cup win over Manchester City, thanks to first-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
This FA Cup victory secured United’s place in the Europa League for the upcoming season, but with significant investment, their goal is to return to the Champions League for the 2025/26 season.
Recent transfer news for Manchester United indicates that one alternative to PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte is PSV Eindhoven’s Joey Veerman. Scott McTominay is rumored to be the midfielder potentially making way, with United seeking £40 million for the Scotland international.
Veerman, valued at £34 million by Transfermarkt, had a notable season with PSV, making 41 appearances, scoring seven goals, and providing 19 assists.
A comparison using FBref’s “similar players” feature shows that Veerman’s profile closely resembles Manchester City’s Rodri. United, aiming to replace Casemiro and find a new midfield partner for Mainoo, might find Veerman a suitable addition if he can offer the same technical security and control as Rodri. Veerman’s passing metrics are impressive, with 4.91 key passes and 11.86 progressive passes per 90 minutes, compared to Rodri’s 12.28 progressive passes.
Rodri’s superiority in these metrics is partly due to Manchester City’s possession-dominant style. Veerman’s technical skills, varied passing, and ball-carrying abilities could enhance United’s build-up play and support Mainoo in more advanced positions. Additionally, Veerman’s defensive stats, including 2.57 tackles and 1.13 blocks per 90 minutes, are comparable to Rodri’s and close to Casemiro’s, who is experiencing a decline in defensive capabilities due to age.
