According to the latest report from The Telegraph, Mount's performance in the pre-season has led Manchester United to consider whether to sign a third midfielder, but his physical condition remains a concern for Carrick.

Manchester United reportedly hopes to strengthen their squad before the new season. So far, their main moves have been to sign Andre Santos from Chelsea and Tielemans from Aston Villa, costing a total of £85 million, as part of a midfield overhaul following Casemiro's departure.

When the transfer window opened, Andre Santos and Tielemans were not the players many expected Manchester United to sign. However, due to various reasons, the club was forced to make adjustments. Ederson's medical examination revealed a new, previously unknown knee issue, which prompted them to abandon signing him for pounds.

Their primary target, Elliot Anderson, joined Manchester City. They then opted out of a bidding war for Matheus Fernandes due to concerns about escalating prices. Manchester United had always planned to bring in two midfielders, and a third if Ugarte was sold.

However, Ugarte suffered a serious knee injury during the World Cup, completely ruining any hope of selling the Uruguayan midfielder this summer. While the possibility of signing another midfielder cannot be ruled out yet, the hierarchy at Old Trafford is weighing how best to utilize the remaining budget.

Carrick successfully paired Mount with Andre Santos in midfield during the pre-season, making the English midfielder potentially one of four options for that position (other options include Mainoo), and funds could also be reallocated elsewhere.

Mount's new role may force the club to reconsider the midfield situation for the remainder of the transfer window. Although he played for the team in pre-season matches against Wrexham, Rosenborg, and the victory over Atletico Madrid, it is still a gamble.

Despite his undeniable talent, popularity, and calm leadership, he has only started 25 Premier League games in his three seasons at Old Trafford since his £60 million transfer from Chelsea to Manchester United in 2023.

If he can stay healthy, he will be a great asset to the team, comparable to a new signing. However, a lack of physical fitness will worry Carrick, especially with the team returning to the Champions League and facing a packed schedule.

Manchester United has extensively scouted numerous candidates. If they are to sign a third midfielder, physical fitness, versatility, and toughness will be the qualities they value. However, at present, it is far from certain whether they are willing to spend £60-80 million on a midfielder.

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