Real Madrid will decide whether to keep Alvaro Arbeloa on as manager when the season concludes and if they do it might come to Manchester United's benefit. The Spanish coach was appointed as Xabi Alonso's replacement early in January.
Arbeloa has improved the mood at the Bernabeu although he has encountered several setbacks. His side were dumped out of the Copa del Rey by Segunda Division outfit Albacete and were beaten 4-2 by Benfica in the Champions League meaning they require a playoff against the Portuguese giants.
There have been some suggestions that some players aren't overly satisfied with life under Arbeloa. If he is appointed on a permanent basis it could lead to one of his main men departing.
Man United told Real Madrid star will move if Arbeloa stays
Arbeloa's contract expires at the end of the season and any decision the board makes over his future will likely depend on what is achieved. His Los Blancos are just a point behind Barcelona heading into their clash with Real Sociedad at the Bernabeu on Saturday (February 14th).
Several players were believed to have grown frustrated under Alonso and Federico Valverde was among those who reportedly weren't too fond of his coaching methods. The Uruguayan midfielder has been a key player this season, posting one goal and nine assists in 32 games across competitions.
Valverde's discontent doesn't seem to have changed despite the change in manager. In fact, reports in Spain (via Football365) claim that the 27-year-old has informed the La Liga giants "he'll go to Manchester United" if Arbeloa stays on next season.
The versatile playmaker is said to be "fed up" with Arbeloa despite playing a starring role during his caretaker tenure thus far. A source close to the player has said that his message is if the coach stays in charge he will "request a transfer."
This is a shocking turn of events given there's been no indication that Valverde is unhappy under the Spaniard. But its the 44-year-old's methods and internal management that concerns the Uruguayan.
Man United's stance over Valverde
United would likely welcome the Madrid man with open arms given their need to rebuild this summer. Not one but two new midfielders could be on the agenda especially with Los Blancos legend Casemiro leaving when his contract expires.
Valverde has been at the Bernabeu since 2018 and become one of the best all-round midfielders in world football. Alonso described him as an "exceptional representative" of Los Blancos' jersey but it seems he's not too happy at the moment.
United have been linked with the Uruguayan in the past although no concrete move was made. He does fit the bill for the Red Devils and he'd undoubtedly help the Premier League giants take another step towards returning to the top of English football.