Man Utd could land Rice clone in no time for £42m partner Mainoo

It's fair to say that amid the disappointment of the 2023/24 campaign, there were a number of bright lights pointing to a bright future for Manchester United.

One of those was Kobbie Mainoo, who shone in the heart of the pitch under Erik ten Hag from the second he stepped on the pitch against Everton in November.

At just 19 years old, he has matured and is at his prime to play at the highest level against the best, as evidenced by his FA Cup winning goal against Manchester City.

With the brilliant Mainoo in mind, let's take a look at Red Devils potential target Declan Rice for United.

Man Utd's latest transfer activity

Jarrad Branthwaite has been the player most heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford so far this summer, but a move could prove difficult given Everton's demands.

At the other end of the pitch, Joshua Zirkzee is a reported name, as United could look to activate his £33.7m release clause.

However, it is in the middle of the park where United are looking to strengthen, with Edson Alvarez and now Conor Gallagher listed as targets.

According to reports from Spain, Man United have entered the race to sign the Chelsea midfielder this summer along with Arsenal and Atletico Madrid.

It is said that the Blues would like to sell the England player for £42m, as they want to raise money for a player who is considered to be replaceable.

Gallagher could be Man Utd's Rice

Under the influence of Mauricio Pochettino, Gallagher became such an important cog in Chelsea's system, regardless of the position he was put in.

Like all the best leaders in the Premier League, the school leavers led by example in every single game, showing determination and a desire to succeed.

Throughout the campaign, the versatile midfielder started 37 Premier League games, which would have been 38 had he not received a red card against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The former loanee from Crystal Palace also proved that he can be a match winner, influencing the final third with five goals and seven assists.

It's fair to say that Gallagher has everything you could want in a modern-day midfielder, and the same can be said for Rice.

As you can see from the table, it's no surprise that Rice and Gallagher are listed in FBref as 'same players'.

First, both are technically gifted and have the ability to work in tight spaces, control the game, and help the side during the build-up phase, as shown by their touches, completed passes, and continuous passes.

This would make Gallagher an ideal partner for Mainoo, as between them, they will be able to dictate the tempo of the game and use the play from the back.

On the other hand, Gallagher is known to be a complete “machine” when it comes to off-the-ball actions and intensity, as called by teammate Moises Caicedo.

Like Rice, the 24-year-old is full of energy, and he can close the field with ease thanks to his performances, which would be a welcome addition in Mainoo's opinion, especially since he partnered with Casemiro last season, “who can. run,” as football creator Liam Canning said.

Together, Mainoo and Gallagher would be an absolute nightmare to play against because of the intensity, technical quality, and solid defense they would bring to the team, something that United lacked last season.

All in all, signing Gallagher would be a masterstroke for Man United, especially given that he is a Rice player and will thrive alongside Mainoo, which is why the ten Hag must get him before the window closes in August.