United locked in transfer battle with Chelsea for 20-yo midfield general turning the PL into his playground – report

Manchester United are reportedly interested in Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki, who is also on the radar of another Premier League giant. United aiming to bolster midfield During the summer transfer window, United focused the bulk of their efforts on reinforcing their attacking department after a goal-shy 2024/25 campaign. United splashed in excess of £200m on the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Brentford and RB Leipzig respectively. The club also snapped up goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on deadline day. United considered signing a midfielder, having identified Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba as their top target. However, a move for the Cameroonian was abandoned upon learning his excessive price tag. United postponed their plans to bring in a midfielder until next summer, when more funds are likely to be available for a top-class player. Interest in Baleba remains intact but he’s not the only one on the club’s list. Other options are Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) and Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest). United appear to be keen on acquisitions who have already proven themselves in England and according to Sky journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Sadiki also has admirers at Old Trafford. United want Sadiki Tavolieri claims that United will battle Chelsea for the signature of Sadiki, who has certainly looked the part since Sunderland’s return to the top flight. He has been crucial in the success the Black Cats have enjoyed this term as they currently sit in ninth place in the standings. Sadiki has started in 15 of the 16 games Sunderland have played, featuring for 90 minutes in all of them except last week’s 3-0 loss to Manchester City. A strong and athletic defensive midfielder, Sadiki has caught the eye with his exceptional reading of the game and ball-winning capabilities. While not a flashy playmaker, his passing is good, often keeping it simple and efficient. He can also be deployed in central defence. Tavolieri notes that both United and Chelsea are prepared to step up their pursuit of the 20-year-old. Chelsea have already been in contact, enquiring about Sunderland’s asking price. 🚨 EXCL – Man United en pince pour Noah Sadiki, Chelsea en contact direct avec… Sunderland ! 🐈‍⬛⚪️🔴 🇨🇩 Toutes les infos ICI ⤵️ 🗞️🔗 https://t.co/yvH42b8oO5 🇨🇭 @SkySportCH #mercato #MUFC #CFC #SAFC #RDC — Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) December 12, 2025 United are also believed to have held discussions with Sadiki’s representatives and could turn to him if Baleba proves unattainable once again. Featured image George Wood via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!