Man Utd looking at £34m “box-crasher” to replace Casemiro 👥 Using FBref’s “similar players” feature, one of Veerman’s top ten comparisons from Euro 2024, is none other than Manchester City midfield star, Rodri. As United are looking to replace Casemiro and acquire a new midfield partner for Mainoo, this could be a perfect addition…
Manchester United have shown strong ambition in the transfer market this summer, reflecting their resolve to enhance their squad. The club’s new owners, INEOS, have used their considerable financial power to bring in highly-rated defender Leny Yoro from Lille and striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. These moves follow a lackluster 2023/24 Premier League season where United finished eighth, though they managed to end the season on a high note by winning the FA Cup. In a thrilling final, they defeated Manchester City 2-1 at Wembley, with first-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
Winning the FA Cup was vital for Manchester United as it guaranteed their place in the Europa League for the upcoming season. The club’s significant investment indicates a clear aim to secure a return to the Champions League for the 2025/26 season. Recent transfer rumors suggest that Manchester United is considering further strengthening their midfield.
According to Football Transfers, Manchester United is eyeing PSV Eindhoven’s Joey Veerman as an alternative to PSG’s Manuel Ugarte. Scott McTominay is reportedly the most likely player to be sold to make way for this new signing, with United valuing the Scottish international at £40 million. Veerman, valued at £34 million by Transfermarkt, made 41 appearances for PSV across all competitions last season, scoring seven goals and providing 19 assists over 3,420 minutes of play.
Using FBref’s “similar players” feature, Veerman is identified as one of the top ten comparisons to Manchester City’s midfield star Rodri from Euro 2024. This comparison is crucial for United as they look for a replacement for Casemiro and a new midfield partner for Mainoo. Veerman’s ability to offer the same level of technical security on the ball as Rodri—protecting the defense, breaking up counterattacks, and controlling the tempo—could make him an ideal addition.
Per 90 minutes, Veerman’s creative passing stats are outstanding, with 4.91 key passes and 11.86 progressive passes, numbers comparable to Rodri’s 12.28 progressive passes per 90. Rodri’s performance is influenced by City’s dominant possession style, and Veerman’s high pass volume, averaging 20 more attempts per 90 minutes than Casemiro, shows his capability to manage the game from a deep position. His performances for the Netherlands during Euro 2024, where he drew comparisons to Rodri, demonstrate his technical skills and passing variety, which would enhance United’s build-up play and allow Mainoo to push further up the field.
Defensively, Veerman is also strong, with averages of 2.57 tackles, 1.13 blocks, and 1.17 aerial duels won per 90 minutes. These defensive stats are close to Rodri’s and remain competitive compared to Casemiro’s, whose defensive abilities have waned due to age. This mix of creative and defensive skills makes Veerman a well-rounded option to pair with Mainoo, supporting United’s aspirations in the Europa League and their pursuit of a Champions League spot.
In summary, Manchester United’s summer transfer activities underscore their determination to rebuild and strengthen the squad following a challenging Premier League season. The acquisitions of Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee show a clear intent to improve both defense and attack. Joey Veerman, with his impressive passing and defensive skills, is emerging as a key midfield target, particularly if McTominay exits. A comparison with Rodri suggests that Veerman could provide similar technical security and passing prowess, making him a valuable addition to the team and a strong partner for Mainoo, as United aims for success in European competitions.
