Softfootball can report that Manchester United are nearing an agreement to sign Javi Guerra from Valencia, as Rúben Amorim looks to reinforce his midfield with a more physically dominant profile.
According to Journalist Calcio Mercato’s Daniele Longo, the 22-year-old Spaniard is “close to joining” the Old Trafford side, with talks accelerating in recent days. Guerra has long been tracked by United, having first appeared on their radar in January, and is viewed as a cost-effective option with a reported valuation of €25 million (£21m).
Daniele shared the news on his X handle this afternoon that a deal is getting closer to bring the midfielder to Carrington.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Javi Guerra is close to join @ManUtd @cmdotcom pic.twitter.com/z6LX0Hw5Ln
— Daniele Longo (@86_longo) July 7, 2025
Amorim is keen to bring in an athletic No 8 this summer to suit the high-octane demands of his 3-4-2-1 system, which relies heavily on energy and ball progression from central areas. The Portuguese coach, who replaced Erik ten Hag last November, believes the current United midfield lacks the physical edge required to consistently compete in the Premier League.
Last season, United rotated between Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, and the now-departed Christian Eriksen in central roles, but none fully delivered the box-to-box presence Amorim craves. While Bruno Fernandes proved the most effective option in deeper midfield, offering a relentless work rate and progressive passing, the United captain is still more natural as a No 10.
Youngster Toby Collyer showed promise due to his physical attributes and featured early in Amorim’s tenure. However, the academy graduate is expected to go on loan next season to gain more experience, with questions remaining about his technical ceiling at the highest level.
With Eriksen leaving on a free transfer and Mainoo being viewed as more of a creative midfielder than a physical one, Amorim is prioritising a new signing to fill the gap. Guerra has emerged as a strong fit, standing at nearly 6 ft 2 in, he offers a rare blend of size, technical quality, and tactical discipline.
He made 34 appearances in La Liga last season and has drawn comparisons to fellow Spanish midfielders for his close control and calmness under pressure. Despite Valencia’s desire to keep their standout performer, the club is open to a sale this summer amid financial constraints.
United’s summer budget is expected to be heavily directed towards the forward line, but Guerra’s price tag makes him an attractive solution as Amorim attempts to build a more robust and dynamic midfield core.
While no official announcement is imminent, there is growing optimism at Carrington that a deal could be concluded swiftly as preseason approaches.
Aside from the surprise interest in Valencia’s midfielder Javi Guerra, Softfootball had earlier reported that Manchester United is looking around for Andre Onana’s replacement.
United have registered an interest in John Victor, the 29-year-old goalkeeper who starred for Botafogo during their recent Club World Cup win over Paris Saint-Germain.
A major factor towards their interest is the presence of an $8 million (€6.8m) release clause in John’s contract, and United are said to have enquired about the Brazilian, with a formal offer anticipated after some additional meetings between the club and the player’s representatives.
