- Manchester United set for midfield rebuild
- Red Devils’ first summer signing is advanced
- Premier League star also backed to join
Manchester United finished the 2025/26 season in fine fashion on Sunday. The Red Devils beat Brighton and Hove Albion 3-0 at the Amex Stadium, which has not been a happy hunting ground in recent years. Now, with another campaign in the books, all focus turns towards the summer transfer window.
Michael Carrick has sparked new life in United, picking up 39 points from a possible 51 since his January arrival. The relentless form sealed a third-place Premier League finish and returned the club to the Champions League after two years away.
However, the momentum currently behind United and the talent in Carrick’s squad will mean very little if the club fumbles a crucial summer of recruitment. That said, three weeks until the window opens, it sounds like the M16 giants have made an encouragingly proactive start.
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Mateus Fernandes to Man Utd?
Atalanta midfielder Ederson has been the topic of increasing noise in recent days. According to Fabrizio Romano, United have agreed personal terms with the Brazilian, who is prioritising an Old Trafford switch.
It appears to be a straightforward move to trigger, should United decide to pursue a deal with Atalanta, but isn’t the only one on the agenda. Mateus Fernandes could closely follow him to Manchester after West Ham United’s relegation from the Premier League.
The 21-year-old has suffered back-to-back relegations, following last year’s drop with Southampton, but has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting midfield talents.
West Ham will need to raise significant funds through player sales after losing Premier League status. According to The Guardian, United is Fernandes’ most likely destination if he decides to stay in England this summer.
Journalist Shaun Connolly reports that the Hammers’ relegation will accelerate negotiations, with the Red Devils keen to get business done early in the transfer window.
Man Utd’s rebuild taking shape
United are expected to recruit three new midfielders this summer. Casemiro’s replacement is the top priority, and competition for Kobbie Mainoo is also necessary. Manuel Ugarte’s inevitable departure would spark the third arrival.
Ederson represents an Ugarte replacement, given that the 26-year-old would be a squad player rather than someone you would expect will start in Carrick’s strongest team.
Fernandes would likely arrive as competition for Mainoo, playing alongside a more defensive midfielder and act as the connector between the defence and the attack.
Premier League Player of the Season Bruno Fernandes, the Portuguese starlet’s footballing idol, is set to be part of that attack.
One big question remains. Who will arrive as the marquee midfield signing? Who will attempt to fill the void left by Casemiro?
Elliot Anderson? Aurelien Tchouameni? Carlos Baleba? All should become clearer in the coming weeks.
