Manchester United identify possible Carrick replacement

Manchester United have earmarked Napoli midfielder Jorginho as a potential long-term replacement for Michael Carrick, reports The Manchester Evening News.

Jose Mourinho wants to bolster his midfield options in the next two transfer windows and will certainly have to address Carrick’s position at the end of the season.

Carrick’s current deal is due to expire at the end of the current campaign and the 36-year-old has not featured for United since September after being diagnosed with a heart problem.

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Weigl has previously been linked with a move to Old Trafford and now Mourinho will continue to monitor Jorginho’s progress over the course of the season.

The Italy international is widely regarded as one of the most underrated central midfielders in Europe after flourishing for Napoli in the last few seasons.

Only Marco Verratti (96.9) averages more passes per game than Jorginho (94.6) in Europe’s top five leagues this season.