The summer transfer window may have only just closed, but Manchester United are already being linked with a January move for Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma.

What's the story?

According to Metro Sports reporter Aden-Jay Wood, the Red Devils are one of three Premier League heavyweights lining up a move for the 25-year-old, with Liverpool and Arsenal also credited with an interest.

He tweeted: "I'm told there remains long-standing interest in Brighton's Yves Bissouma from several clubs including Man United, Arsenal and Liverpool. Bissouma, who has 2yrs left on his current deal, is happy on the south coast, but one that could be revisited in January."

He's a big upgrade

United's engine room has long been a problem area for the 20-time English champions, although the arrival of Bruno Fernandes and return to form of Paul Pogba has significantly strengthened it in an attacking sense.

However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer still favours a double pivot of Fred and Scott McTominay in the big games, largely due to the absence of a natural defensive midfielder capable of providing sufficient defensive cover against the toughest of opponents.

As a result, the Old Trafford outfit have been linked with a move for a holding midfielder in recent months, although no approach has been made for any potential target.

That could be about to change this winter, though, with Bissouma reportedly catching the eye of United's hierarchy. And it's easy to understand why.

As per fbref.com, the Mali international won an average of two tackles per 90 last season, outperforming McTominay's total of 1.18 and Fred's 1.81.

The £22.5m-rated beast also won 63.3% of his aerial duels and carried the ball into the final third 62 times, bettering McTominay and Fred's tallies of 56.6% and 34.4% and 61 and 46, respectively.

Therefore, Bissouma's arrival would offer an upgrade to Solskjaer's current options at the base of midfield in particular areas, potentially allowing the Norwegian to play with a single pivot and have the confidence to field a more attacking lineup.

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