Man Utd urged to sign Netherlands international that would 'bring quality and personality every single game' as ex-Premier League winner warns Red Devils need 'so many players'

Manchester United have been urged to pursue a move for Dutch star Xavi Simons, with former Premier League-winning midfielder Emmanuel Petit claiming the RB Leipzig forward would inject "quality and personality every single game". As the Red Devils prepare for a major summer rebuild under head coach Ruben Amorim, the ex-Arsenal and Chelsea man warned that the squad is lacking in multiple areas and needs "so many players" to compete at the highest level.

Speaking to FastSlots, Petit said: "Manchester United need so many players, they need players with personality and although I’m a big fan of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, that is still what they need.

"Manchester United have to play every single game with quality and personality and Xavi Simons would bring that. He could bring that, but he can’t be the only one doing it.

"Listening to the new owners, it sounds like United will need to sell players before they sign more, they are working hard to fix the club on the inside and reduce costs, he has also spoken about being unhappy with the wages some of the current players are on.

"I totally agree with him. I think this is probably the priority for the next season. If they have the chance to qualify for the Champions League that will be a big bonus, but in the meantime they have to work hard this season."

A major squad overhaul is expected at Old Trafford this summer. The Red Devils have already reportedly reached an agreement with Wolves for the transfer of Matheus Cunha, while reports from Germany indicate that United will have to spend €70m (£60m/$80m) to acquire Simons from Leipzig.

While United's domestic form has been poor, they are looking the favourites to seal a spot in next season's Champions League by winning the Europa League. On Thursday, Amorim's troops recorded a convincing 3-0 win against Athletic Club in the semi-final first leg at San Mames, and appear to have one foot in the final of the competition. Before next week's return leg, they will take on Brentford on Sunday, May 4.