Rodri’s style inspires Man United’s hunt for Hugo Larsson as next ‘Rodri’

Manchester United have set their sights on Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Larsson as the next Rodri-style defensive midfielder to complete their midfield rebuild.

Why United want a Rodri clone

United are chasing a third midfielder to finish their rebuild, and they want a defensive specialist who can sit at the base of midfield and shield the back line. The club has already added Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos this summer, but their search for a ball-winning number six has intensified.

Aurelien Tchouameni was on their radar, but Real Madrid have just agreed a new deal with the Frenchman, locking him down until 2029. That leaves Ayyoub Bouaddi and Manu Koné as fallback options, though both impressed at Euro 2024 and now have multiple suitors.

Hugo Larsson’s rise and the Rodri comparison

Hugo Larsson, 22, has emerged as United’s preferred target. The Sweden international is often compared to Rodri for his ability to break lines, thread killer passes from deep, and win the ball relentlessly. Frankfurt are willing to sell him for around £42 million, and United are in talks with his representatives.

Newcastle United are also chasing Larsson, but United believe their Champions League football and a guaranteed starting role could swing the deal in their favor. The 6’1” Swede’s physicality and pace fit the Premier League’s demands, and he’s open to leaving Frankfurt.

What happens next for Larsson and United

Frankfurt are ready to cash in on Larsson, who has become one of the Bundesliga’s most reliable midfield enforcers. United’s midfield rebuild hinges on landing a player who can do the dirty work while spraying passes forward: a direct match for Rodri’s profile.

The race is on. United and Newcastle have both made initial contact, but the Red Devils believe their European ambitions and clear first-team role could tip the scales. If Larsson joins, he’ll step into a side still searching for stability after years of midfield chaos.

*Reporting date: 16 July 2026*

*Featured image: Christian Kaspar-Bartke via Getty Images*