Manchester United are hoping two specific players can help change their fortunes, but other potentially astute deals could also be on offer in next summer’s transfer window
Despite their best efforts to turn things around, Manchester United are still struggling to find their footing this season. After their worst season in recent memory, the Red Devils spent more than £200m on Brian Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesco in the summer to strengthen Ruben Amorim’s front line.
But despite addressing one major issue, the campaign is once again rearing its head on other long-term issues. United continue to suffer from an unbalanced midfield that is frequently overrun by lower-ranked teams.
As previously reported, the club’s leadership and Amorim are keenly aware of the need to invest in central midfield. And as part of their long-term rebuilding strategy, the Red Devils will prioritize making two signings in next summer’s transfer window.
One name that keeps coming up is Carlos Baleva. The Brighton midfielder was linked with a move to Old Trafford following inquiries last summer, but Brighton ultimately rejected United’s interest in the 21-year-old.
Amorim’s interest in Cameroonian Baleva is understood to remain high despite Brighton’s hefty offer of around £100m. That seems like a price worth paying.
read more: Manchester United shortlist two Premier League stars and decide to prioritize transfersread more: Manchester United eyeing replacement Premier League star amid Elliot Anderson transfer concerns
United’s other star player to watch is Nottingham Forest’s Elliott Anderson, who also carries a similar price tag of between £100m and £120m. The versatile midfielder, who can play as both a number six and a mobile midfielder, has attracted a lot of attention following his outstanding performances for Forest and the England national team.
Anderson, one of the most promising players in English football, is already on Amorim’s watch list. The Portuguese manager previously praised the England star as a “very good player” before this season’s game against Forest. Apparently, the admiration has now turned into genuine interest.
Sky Germany reports that Forest are in a better negotiating position as the 23-year-old does not have a release clause in his contract. However, it is believed that the Red Devils are ready to do everything in their power to secure his services.
Signing both players for a total of £200m may raise some eyebrows, but it is certainly a necessary investment. They will form the backbone of the team’s midfield for years to come, offering Amorim more stability and balance in the center of the pitch than his current options.
The Portuguese manager has been forced to play Bruno Fernandes deep in midfield in a 3-4-2-1 system this season, partnering either the aging Casemiro or the underwhelming Manuel Ugarte. In that position, the United captain’s defensive discipline and concentration were sometimes lacking, and opponents could take advantage of this to their detriment.
The addition of Bareva and Andersson would allow Fernandes to return to his favored role as one of the attacking playmakers operating behind the striker, allowing him to share game time with players such as Cunha. The 31-year-old Portugal international is likely already at his best in a United shirt, and managing his playing time more carefully could benefit both the player and the club going forward.
He was on the verge of moving to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal in the summer transfer window, but there is a possibility that he will be sold after rejecting a huge offer. If they come back with a bid in the region of £70m, United may be wise to accept such a big fee to fund a midfield double.
Beyond midfield concerns, United could also set their sights on Crystal Palace right wing-back Daniel Munoz. The Colombian has impressed at Selhurst Park since joining from Belgian side Genk in 2024 and recently admitted it would be a “dream” to wear the famous Red Devils shirt.
Munoz is under contract with Palace until 2028, but is now thinking about the next stage of his career. However, he admitted he had no “concrete information” that United or his other dream destinations Barcelona, PSG and Real Madrid were really interested in signing him.
His qualities will undoubtedly make him a valuable addition to Amorim’s squad. The 29-year-old has played in 81 games for the Eagles, scoring eight points. His tireless efforts and attacking ability have helped the club win the FA Cup and Community Shield, and he would be the perfect successor to Diogo Dalot.
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