Federico Valverde has reportedly made a stunning admission about his long-standing admiration for Manchester United, claiming the Premier League giants have held a special place in his heart since childhood.
According to emerging reports, the Uruguayan midfielder has received several lucrative proposals from elite European clubs but is seriously considering a move to Old Trafford for deeply personal and professional reasons. Central to that motivation is his desire to share the pitch with a particular United player he has long admired.
The 25-year-old star, currently with Real Madrid, is said to have informed the Spanish club that his future could lie in England if certain managerial circumstances remain unchanged.
Reports suggest Valverde would be open to joining Manchester United during the upcoming summer transfer window, particularly if Alvaro Arbeloa continues in a leading coaching role at Madrid next season.
United, meanwhile, have already demonstrated their financial muscle in recent transfer windows. Last summer, the club spent in excess of £200 million to strengthen the squad, bringing in players such as Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, Diego Leon, and Senne Lammens.
Despite the heavy investment, results at the start of the campaign were inconsistent, leading to major changes on the touchline.
Former manager Ruben Amorim was dismissed, and club legend Michael Carrick was appointed as interim head coach until the end of the season.
Carrick has overseen an impressive turnaround, recording four wins and a draw in his opening five matches. His early success has sparked debate among supporters about whether he should remain in charge beyond the summer.
Regardless of who leads the team next season, United’s recruitment strategy is already being mapped out. The club intends to prioritize midfield reinforcements, with at least one or potentially two additions expected.
According to Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett, United are adopting a calculated, data-driven approach.
The club reportedly avoided overspending in January but will be prepared to act decisively in the summer if their primary targets become attainable.
Among the midfielders linked with Old Trafford are Carlos Baleba of Brighton & Hove Albion, Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, Adam Wharton, and Joao Gomes of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Reports suggest Anderson may currently top the shortlist, although any deal could exceed £100 million.
Valverde’s potential availability has added further intrigue. Spanish sources claim the midfielder has grown frustrated with Arbeloa’s management style, believing his tactical methods and internal handling of the squad do not align with the team’s needs.
The dissatisfaction is said to have intensified in recent months, prompting Valverde to communicate his concerns to Madrid’s hierarchy. Should Arbeloa remain in place, the Uruguayan is reportedly prepared to formally request a transfer.
In that context, United’s long-standing admiration for Valverde has resurfaced. Preliminary contact is believed to have taken place, positioning the Red Devils as serious contenders should Madrid sanction a departure.
If the move materializes, it would mark one of the most high-profile midfield transfers of the summer — and potentially fulfill a childhood dream for one of Europe’s most dynamic midfielders.
