Man United sign Santos & Tielemans: Why Ndidi can still make Old Trafford move

Manchester United’s midfield rebuild appears to be gathering pace after the arrivals of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos and the imminent signing of Belgian international Youri Tielemans, Afrik Foot reports.

For many observers, the two deals could signal the end of the Red Devils’ interest in Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi, putting an end to weeks of speculation about a return to the Premier League for the Besiktas midfielder.

However, rather than closing the door on the Nigerian midfielder, the arrivals of Santos and Tielemans could actually strengthen the argument for Manchester United to make a move for Ndidi.

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi. Copyright: Imago

Why Santos and Tielemans do not eliminate the need for Ndidi

Both Santos and Tielemans are excellent midfielders, but neither is a specialist defensive midfielder in the mould of Casemiro.

After enjoying his breakthrough at Strasbourg, he played alongside Moises Caicedo at Chelsea, operating as a dynamic box-to-box presence capable of progressing the ball, arriving in the final third and contributing defensively.

Similarly, Tielemans has produced some of his best football when paired with a natural defensive shield.

Wilfred Ndidi and Youri Tielemans at Leicester. Copyright: ImagoxGrahamxWilson

At Leicester City, Wilfred Ndidi’s presence allowed the Belgian greater freedom to dictate play higher up the pitch. More recently, at Aston Villa, Boubacar Kamara performed a similar role, enabling Tielemans to flourish creatively.

Neither player naturally specialises in sitting in front of the defence, winning duels consistently and covering large spaces during transitions.

That remains one of Manchester United’s biggest issues following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury.

Casemiro in action for Manchester United. Photo by IMAGO

Ndidi provides something Man United currently lack

The Super Eagles captain remains one of the best ball-winning midfielders available in the transfer market.

Throughout his Premier League career, Ndidi consistently ranked among the league leaders for tackles, interceptions and ball recoveries.

His profile is significantly different from Santos and Tielemans. While the Brazilian and Belgian thrive in hybrid midfield roles, Ndidi’s game is built around defensive security, positional discipline and physical dominance.

Andrey Santos signs for Manchester United. [Photo Credit: Manutd.com].

These qualities become even more important in the Premier League, where many matches are decided by transitions, second balls and physical battles in midfield.

Manchester United struggled in those areas last season, despite Casemiro having a resurgence in his final campaign.

Against stronger opponents, a midfield pairing of Santos and Tielemans lacks the defensive protection required to control games, which is precisely why Ndidi could still become an attractive option.

Santos and Tielemans may actually need Ndidi

Ironically, signing Santos and Tielemans could increase United’s need for a player like Ndidi.

A midfield trio consisting of Ndidi behind Santos and Tielemans appears significantly more balanced than pairing the latter two without a specialist defensive midfielder.

Ndidi would provide the platform for both players to express themselves.

Portugal and Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes. Copyright: David Klein / Sportimage/IMAGO

Santos could drive forward and utilise his progressive passing ability, while Tielemans would enjoy the freedom to dictate attacks and create chances without constantly worrying about defensive responsibilities.

This mirrors the environments in which both players have produced their best football.

Santos excelled alongside Caicedo while Tielemans flourished with both Ndidi and Kamara.

The evidence suggests that both midfielders perform better when supported by a defensive midfielder.

Nigeria and Besiktas star Wilfred Ndidi. Photo by Seskimphoto /IMAGO

Financially, Ndidi makes perfect sense

Another factor working in Ndidi’s favour is his affordability. Manchester United have already committed substantial resources (£83m) towards signing Santos and Tielemans.

A move for another expensive midfielder may prove difficult. Ndidi, however, represents a low-risk and relatively inexpensive solution.

At 29, he may not be a long-term investment, but he offers experience, Premier League knowledge and leadership in the middle of the park.

For a club attempting to return to competing for major honours, those qualities are necessary.

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick. Copyright: Imago

Despite United’s midfield additions, there remains a noticeable tactical gap within Michael Carrick’s squad. Santos and Tielemans improve creativity, progression and technical quality.

What they do not provide is a direct replacement for Casemiro’s defensive presence.

That role remains vacant, and until Manchester United signs a holding midfielder, links to Wilfred Ndidi are unlikely to disappear.

However, the signs are looking positive for the Red Devils, who’ve added two midfield maestros to a squad that already boasts the presence of Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, boosting their depth as they look to compete for silverware.