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Football Insider

Manchester United's Midfield Overhaul: A Look at the Potential Targets

Manchester United are gearing up for a midfield revamp next summer under Ruben Amorim. With uncertainties surrounding key players like Fernandes and Casemiro, the Red Devils are eyeing promising talents to strengthen their midfield. Let's delve into the targets and the future of United's midfield landscape.

Manchester United's Midfield Overhaul: A Look at the Potential Targets

Manchester United are preparing to invest in a new midfield partnership next summer as part of a planned overhaul under Ruben Amorim. United have been monitoring several Premier League midfielders, including Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and Alex Scott, as they assess long-term changes in the centre of the pitch, with the futures of Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo unclear.There is plenty of uncertainty surrounding a number of United’s current midfield options, so it is unsurprising to see the club constantly linked with reinforcements. Bruno Fernandes recently cast doubt over his future in an interview last month, in which he claimed the club attempted to sell him during the summer and suggested he would be open to playing in Portugal or Italy. The club captain is also currently sidelined with injury, having been withdrawn in the 2-1 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday.There is also ambiguity over the futures of Mainoo, Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte. Mainoo had a request to leave on loan blocked in August and could seek a move in the winter transfer window if his playing time does not increase. The England international was left out of the squad entirely at the weekend, but reportedly has plenty of suitors should he decide to push for a move. Casemiro, who turns 34 in February, is out of contract at the end of the season and is widely expected to depart, having been playing in the twilight of his career in the last few seasons.Ugarte, who joined United in a £50.75 million deal only last year, has started just four matches this season, all of which ended in defeat. United’s enquiry about Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba during the summer further raised doubts internally about Ugarte’s suitability for the Premier League, and Amorim does not appear to have much trust in the 24-year-old.Fernandes and Casemiro remain among the club’s highest earners, and potential permanent departures for Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho would free up additional funds for reinforcements. All four of the mentioned players are believed to be on or near £300,000-a-week contracts.United have signed only two specialist central midfielders in the past seven years, Casemiro and Ugarte, having previously failed to secure Declan Rice before his £105 million move from West Ham to Arsenal in 2023.Any incoming would not be expected to top the wage books, but could well cost the club a significant transfer fee.Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Among the targets being assessed for the summer, Nottingham Forest midfielder Anderson is under contract until 2029 and has seen his value rise since establishing himself in Thomas Tuchel’s England side. Forest signed Anderson from Newcastle for £35 million 18 months ago, but he has hit the ground running in the Midlands.Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton could represent a more attainable option. The 21-year-old, whose contract also runs until 2029, is considering signing new terms, though Palace have a recent history of selling key players. Michael Olise left for Bayern Munich via a release clause last year, while Arsenal signed Eberchi Eze for an initial £60 million in the summer.Baleba, also 21, is contracted to Brighton until 2028, but his role has diminished this season. The Cameroon international has been substituted at half-time on four occasions by Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler, although the manager has admitted that is due to the impact of United's widely reported interest last summer.Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, 22, has become a regular in the Premier League this season and earned his first England call-up last month. United had also been linked with Scott’s team-mate Tyler Adams, but the American suffered a suspected medial collateral ligament injury earlier this week.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingAs it stands, United will have to make do with the options they have available. With Fernandes' injury ruling him out until the New Year, the Red Devils may assess some emergency options in January, as they look to keep themselves in the hunt for the European places, despite missing the chance to go fifth in the Premier League with a result at Villa.

1

The Need for Change

Manchester United are facing a pivotal moment in their squad planning, particularly in the midfield department. With the futures of Fernandes, Casemiro, and others uncertain, the club is actively exploring options to bolster their midfield setup.

2

Potential Departures and Financial Considerations

High earners like Fernandes and Casemiro, coupled with the possibility of Rashford and Sancho's departures, could free up funds for new signings. This financial restructuring is crucial as United aim to make strategic acquisitions in the upcoming transfer window.

3

Scouting Report: The Four Targets

Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Alex Scott are among the midfielders on United's radar. Each player brings unique strengths and qualities that could complement the existing squad dynamics. From emerging talents to established performers, the Red Devils have a diverse set of options to evaluate.

4

Assessing the Transfer Market Landscape

Nottingham Forest's Anderson, Crystal Palace's Wharton, Brighton's Baleba, and Bournemouth's Scott offer varying profiles in terms of age, experience, and playing style. United's strategical approach to recruitment will play a crucial role in determining the right fit for the club's long-term objectives.

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Immediate Challenges and Future Ambitions

With Fernandes sidelined and the need for reinforcements evident, United may explore short-term solutions in the upcoming transfer window. Balancing immediate needs with long-term planning is essential as the Red Devils aim to maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League and beyond.

Published on Dec 22, 2025