Manchester United are closing in on their second signing of the summer. United have already reached a total agreement with Atalanta for the services of Ederson. In a recent interview, the Brazil midfielder insisted: “It’s almost all done, but now I’m here and I have to enjoy this moment to the fullest.” INEOS are believed to be aiming to add at least two more midfielders to Michael Carrick’s side. A report suggest a breakthrough has been made in the search of a second midfielder. Manchester United close in on Mateus Fernandes Manchester United have been chasing West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes for some time now, establishing themselves as his preferred destination despite interest from Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid. Tottenham Hotspur entered the picture this week. On Saturday, it emerged that they are nearing an agreement with the Portuguese midfielder’s camp. However, Football Insider now claims United have agreed personal terms with Fernandes and are “making progress towards a full transfer agreement.” West Ham are thought to be holding out for over £80 million for the midfielder, with United “hoping to conclude a deal worth £65m plus add ons.” More to follow… Featured image Justin Setterfield 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 Latest Top Stories… Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
Mateus Fernandes breakthrough: United take huge step toward closing deal for dream midfielder – report
Gary Neville urges United to sign World Cup star with absolutely everything as Mateus Fernandes alternative
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has urged the club to consider a move for Felix Nmecha. The German midfielder has gone from strength to strength with Borussia Dortmund in recent times and is currently with his national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Nmecha was outstanding against Curacao in the opening game of the tournament, scoring one goal and helping Die Nationalmannschaft to a 7-1 win. With the Red Devils looking for a new midfielder this summer, the 25 year old has been mentioned as an option as well. The Premier League giants have reportedly secured the services of Atalanta’s Ederson as they look to fill the void left by Casemiro. However, they remain keen to make further additions to the middle of the park, with West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes reportedly high up on the wish list. Recent reports, though, suggest that the Hammers want £85 million to let him go, which could prompt United to consider alternatives. Neville believes Nmecha could be a fine option for the job. United urged to look at Nmecha Speaking on ITV, Neville pointed out that Nmecha is a complete midfielder, but acknowledged that his performances at the World Cup could see his price soar. He said: “The more he plays like he did the other night the more expensive he’ll get.” “But at the moment, we hear Manchester United are being quoted £100 million for the West Ham boy Fernandes, so they’re going to have to be looking around this tournament and parts of Europe. He looked outstanding the other night, it looked like he had absolutely everything.” Arsenal legend Ian Wright echoed those sentiments, adding: “When you look at him he breaks lines, he gets into the box, he’s got Kimmich to come in and fill in for him. He can play as a No.8 or No.10, we can see he can finish, you can see why teams are interested in him. He’s got everything.” Former Everton striker Duncan Ferguson was also full of praise for the German midfielder, stating: “He’s a very good player, a young player, he’s got a very good right foot, he’s athletic, he can get around the pitch. It looks like he can get in the box, he can defend, he’s a good size, he’s young, you can see why people are after him.” Nmecha registered five goals and three assists in 42 appearances for BVB last season. Felix Nmecha Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Bundesliga292523–2,190′ UEFA Champions League1093—753′ DFB-Pokal32—-193′ Total423653–3,136′ Source: Transfermarkt. How did Nmecha fare against Ivory Coast? Germany picked up a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast on Saturday, with Nmecha coming up against Amad. The 23 year old, unfortunately, had a quiet outing, but the German was impressive once again, providing United fans with a glimpse of what he could offer at Old Trafford. While he could not find the back of the net, Nmecha ran the show against the Elephants, creating two big chances and recording a 91% pass completion rate. He also put in the hard work in the middle of the park, registering three clearances and eight tackles. Final Thoughts Nmecha could be a fantastic option to strengthen United’s midfield but prising him away from Dortmund could be next to impossible. The German midfielder is under contract at the Signal Iduna Park until 2030, and his €70 million release clause only comes into play next summer. Meanwhile, Real Madrid reportedly have their eyes on the player, which could further complicate matters. Featured image Christof Koepsel 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
United star picks side as brewing civil war threatens to scupper national team’s World Cup hopes
Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot has rallied to Cristiano Ronaldo’s defence amid growing calls for the Portugal captain to be dropped from the national side. Civil war Ronaldo has come under heavy criticism following his poor performance in Portugal’s World Cup opener against DR Congo. He led the line and struggled as Congo held him and his teammates to a 1-1 draw. The United icon had a night to forget, spurning a string of big chances that ended up hurting Portugal. Thierry Henry wasn’t holding back either, slamming him for being selfish and robbing Bruno Fernandes of a goal. Other media figures and supporters have similarly suggested that he is now a detriment to the national side. Matters have been worsened by a fringe of Ronaldo’s radical fans, who have bizarrely targeted his teammates and their partners online, convinced of a conspiracy to undermine him on the pitch. Fernandes and PSG midfielder Joao Neves are among those who have suffered this inexcusable and frankly shameful treatment. And if things weren’t already messy enough, Ronaldo’s sister Katia Aveiro waded into the debate on social media, seemingly accusing his fellow Portugal internationals of deliberately trying to sabotage him. Portuguese journalist Vitor Pinto has warned that the situation is very delicate and could sink into a full-blown civil war, pitting Ronaldo against others in the squad. Pinto was quick to shut down the sabotage talk, though he did concede that there are signs of friction behind the scenes. But Dalot insists that the Selecao remain unbothered, together and fully focused on their World Cup campaign. Dalot defended Ronaldo while insisting that they were prepared for the criticism that has been directed at them. Dalot defends Ronaldo Dalot told the media, “It’s very simple. In the locker room, at our stadium, we had the opportunity before arriving at the World Cup to have a detailed conversation about this [social media and criticism].” “It was almost as if we’d anticipated that this would happen. Of course, when you have a squad like this especially with a player like Cristiano we have to be prepared, a little more than usual.” “The fact that we had that pre-World Cup conversation to prepare ourselves for these moments meant that when it actually happened, we were able to send the message that the group is unshakable — we knew this was going to happen.” “We knew we’d face difficulties and criticism … Sometimes unfair, sometimes untrue, and often blown out of proportion.” Dalot said of Ronaldo, “Everyone already knows how well Cristiano handles criticism. He has over 20 years of experience with the national team. I think what he conveys to the team, that confidence, those criticisms are just part of the game, especially given the level at which we’re capable of playing, being in one of the biggest, if not the biggest, competitions in the world.” “The confidence he instills in us, and we in him, has always been the same and always will be. As long as he represents the national team, I think he’ll always have that ability and will always be ready to play.” Portugal are next in action on Tuesday when they face Uzbekistan, in a crucial Group K clash. 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!
0/5 dribbles, 1 big chance missed: United star hauled off after fluffing his lines in World Cup defeat
Manchester United forward Amad was unable to inspire the Ivory Coast as they fell to a painful late 2-1 defeat to Germany in their second World Cup clash. Edged out Somewhat against expectations, the Ivory Coast took the lead in the 30th minute through Franck Kessie, who was on hand to fire home after Amad had been unable to get a clean shot away. The match hung in the balance as both teams had their moments. Then, in the 68th minute, substitute Deniz Undav met Nadiem Amiri’s cross to restore parity and end Ivory Coast’s stubborn resistance. The Elephants created chances, the clearest of which came to Simon Adingra. Unfortunately, he miscontrolled the ball, giving a Germany defender the opportunity to step in and win possession. Undav then rubbed salt in the wounds deep into stoppage time, slotting home a tidy finish to break Ivory Coast hearts. Amad was his nation’s hero in their opener against Ecuador, scoring a late winner that earned him a starting berth. However, he was unable to replicate that impact in what proved to be a tightly contested affair. The United man was on the pitch for 75 minutes before he was taken off and replaced by Simon Adingra. Amad’s performance Amad managed to find his teammates with 17 of the 18 passes he attempted (94% individual pass accuracy). Two of these were key passes. He had only one shot and squandered a big chance, but it didn’t prove costly as Kessie was there to slot home and put Ivory Coast ahead. The United star touched the ball 35 times. He embarked on five dribbles, failing to complete any of them – an area he will be desperate to put right before the nation’s next World Cup outing. Amad made four defensive contributions. He won both tackles he put in and made four recoveries. He delved into nine ground duels but came out on top just twice. CategoryStatValue DefensiveTackles (won)2 (2) Interceptions2 Recoveries4 Ground duels (won)9 (2) PossessionTouches35 Unsuccessful touches1 Dribbles (successful)5 (0) Key passes2 Crosses (accurate)2 (1) Accurate passes17/18 (94%) Passes in opposition half (acc.)10/11 (91%) Passes in own half (acc.)7/7 (100%) Total shots1 Shots blocked1 Big chances missed1 (Stats obtained from Sofascore) Amad and his teammates are next in action on Thursday when they face Curacao in Philadelphia. Featured image Michael Reaves/Getty 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!
Hes a big character: Harry Maguire explains why ex-United ace never fulfilled his potential at Old Trafford
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has explained where the Red Devils got it wrong with former midfielder Scott McTominay. The Scot rose through the ranks at Old Trafford and was a first-team regular until he was offloaded in the summer of 2024. McTominay broke into the senior side under Jose Mourinho, before gaining prominence under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He was also heavily involved under Erik ten Hag, before the Dutchman decided to move him on in a bid to sign a new defensive midfielder. The Red Devils used the Scottish midfielder’s departure to secure the services of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Unfortunately for the English giants, the Uruguayan has failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford and remains linked with an exit this summer. McTominay, meanwhile, joined Napoli and the rest, as they say, is history. McTominay unshackled after United exit McTominay’s move to Napoli turned out to be a turning point in his career. The Scot was outstanding in his debut season at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, helping them win the Serie A title. McTominay’s explosive start earned him the Serie A MVP award, a nomination for the Ballon d’Or, and most importantly, a permanent place in the hearts of the fans. McFratm now has a shrine dedicated to him at Vico San Nicola al Nilo. Last season, the 29 year old registered 14 goals and four assists in 44 games, helping the Partenopei win the Supercoppa Italiana and finish second in the Serie A. Scott McTominay Stats: 25/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Serie A33311031-2,793′ UEFA Champions League8841–699′ Supercoppa Italiana22–1-180′ Italy Cup10—-29′ Total44411442-3,701′ Source: Transfermarkt. McTominay has turned his career around since leaving Old Trafford, and Maguire has now explained why the player failed to realise his true potential at United. McTominay works best in an advanced role Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast after Scotland’s 1-0 defeat to Morocco, Maguire hailed McTominay’s character and leadership qualities. He said: “I really got on with Scott. He’s a great person to have around the dressing room.” “He’s a big character, a great leader. If you train with Scotty, everyone knows the ability he has. In five-a-side, he’s always up there with the top scorers.” Maguire went on to suggest that United failed to get the best out of the Scot as he was played out of position. He said: “At Man Utd, he played a bit deeper. To be a number 10 at United, you have to be the superstar, and I think Scotty is a much better player further up the pitch than he is as a number six, and he played number six at United a lot.” “You need him around the box; he’s so clinical. If Scotland were going to score, it was going to come from Scott. He has great runs, great timing, and his finishing is at a real high level. He’s a top player.” The United defender also revealed that he was always certain McTominay would be a success at Napoli, concluding: “When he went there, I knew he’d do well, and the rest of the team knew he’d do well, but it’s hard when we have Bruno there in the number 10 position, and it’s hard to move him out of the team.” Final Thoughts United legend Wayne Rooney recently said that he would love to have McTominay back at Old Trafford, but a return looks unlikely. While the Red Devils are in the market for midfield reinforcements, they are looking for a different profile at the moment. Featured image Timothy Rogers 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
United lie in wait as Spurs start bidding war for Italian superstar, City also in the mix – Fabrizio Romano
Manchester United will be breathing a sigh of relief in their bid to sign midfielder Sandro Tonali after Tottenham Hotspur’s opening bid for him was rejected by Newcastle. Tottenham step up Tonali chase Tonali is believed to feature on a list of midfielders United are keen on signing this summer. He is looking to leave Newcastle, who finished in 12th place in the Premier League and consequently missed out on Champions League football. The Magpies initially did not want to sell him but they have now opened up to the possibility of losing him for the right sum. The reliable David Ornstein of The Athletic recently revealed that Newcastle want £100m to sanction Tonali’s sale. Ornstein revealed that Tottenham have opened talks with Newcastle in an effort to try and strike an agreement for the Italy international. Discussions are also ongoing with the player’s camp regarding personal terms. Manchester City are another party eyeing Tonali and have also reached out to his representatives, although they have yet to formally express their interest to Newcastle. Another report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are among a number of suitors that have enquired about the 26-year-old. As the situation develops, journalist Ben Jacobs has confirmed that Tottenham tabled an opening offer for Tonali, which was turned down by Newcastle. Tonali bid Jacobs wrote on X, ” Newcastle United have rejected a bid from Spurs in the region of £75m-£80m for Sandro Tonali, as @SkyFootball called.” “Newcastle are looking for at least £85m fixed and a total package of around £100m.” “Spurs and Manchester City the two clubs active on Tonali.” 🚨 Newcastle United have rejected a bid from Spurs in the region of £75m-£80m for Sandro Tonali, as @SkyFootball called. Newcastle are looking for at least £85m fixed and a total package of around £100m. Spurs and Manchester City the two clubs active on Tonali.🇮🇹 🤝… pic.twitter.com/YYHXDB1gjg — Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) June 20, 2026 This has information has been corroborated by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano who says, “Tottenham bid was sent 3 days ago, rejected by Newcastle.” “£75m were never gonna be enough but part of the plan; talks have been underway since then with #THFC determined to get the deal done.” “Spurs keep pushing. De Zerbi wants him.” 🚨 More on Tonali and Spurs exclusive story. Tottenham bid was sent 3 days ago, rejected by Newcastle. £75m were never gonna be enough but part of the plan; talks have been underway since then with #THFC determined to get the deal done. Spurs keep pushing. De Zerbi wants him. pic.twitter.com/fyrIAVOGKh — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 20, 2026 As it stands, Tonali does not appear to be a priority for United, with the club seemingly unconcerned about the prospect of him joining either Tottenham or City. Nevertheless, the situation is one to monitor closely, with further twists and turns expected. Feature image Carl Recine 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!
United told 35m will be enough to sign “super intelligent” 6’4 beast, he’s better than Mateus Fernandes – opinion
Manchester United’s attempts to sign Premier League-proven midfielders have been met with exorbitant price-tags. Initially this summer, Elliot Anderson was United’s dream midfield target, but Nottingham Forest want the Englishman’s suitors to surpass the British record transfer fee to secure his services. United have now made Mateus Fernandes their priority target. West Ham’s stance is equally tough despite their relegation to the Championship, with the Hammers demanding around £80m for the Portuguese youngster. Another Serie A midfielder on Manchester United’s radar Manchester United have already reached a total agreement with Atalanta for the transfer of Ederson. The combative Brazilian will join United in a £38.8m deal, including add-ons. United’s director of football Jason Wilcox supposedly drove the pursuit of Ederson after concluding that the Brazil international’s exceptional work rate and physicality make him an ideal fit for the intense nature of Premier League football. According to Corriere dello Sport (via the Manchester Evening News), United are also keen on Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram. It is understood the France international could be available for £35m as Juventus are under financial pressure after missing out on Champions League football. At this point, United are not believed to be working actively on signing Thuram, but given his experience, profile and price tag, Wilcox should make a strong push for another Serie A midfield dynamo. Manchester United need to go all out for Khephren Thuram As we saw during the second half of last season, Michael Carrick does not want to hand strict, specific responsibilities to his two midfielders behind Bruno Fernandes. Both Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro had licence to move higher up the field and were expected to provide cover for the more advanced partner in transition. As such, this summer, United have been targeting all-action midfielders to complement Mainoo, and Thuram fits the brief perfectly and arguably better than Fernandes. At 6’4″, the Frenchman’s imposing physical presence allows him to dominate in duels. On top of that, he possesses exceptional close control. Early this year, Juve boss Luciano Spalletti described the midfield beast as a “super intelligent” player. Khéphren Thuram Serie A stats: 2025/26 Season Appearances35 Minutes per game70 Touches53.6 Key passes0.7 Accurate passes37.4 Interceptions 0.3 Tackles 1.7 Goals and assists 6 Source: Sofascore Juventus often rely on the right-footed midfielder to recover possession and progress the play from within his own half. The 25-year-old’s powerful carries and eye for a pass can disrupt the most rigid blocks. Thuram has drawn comparisons to France legend Patrick Vieira for the way he uses his frame to win the ball and dribble past opponents. More importantly, INEOS figures must be aware of Thuram’s ability and attitude, given he played for OGC Nice in Ligue 1 before moving to Italy. Feature image Alessandro Sabattini 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 Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
Ex-United star set for spicy reunion next season as she seals move to rival WSL club – official
London City Lionesses have confirmed the signing of former Manchester United goalkeeper Mary Earps, who has put pen to paper on a two-year contract. United spell United announced Earps’ departure in the summer of 2024 after a five-year spell in which she racked up 125 appearances. She left as a free agent to join Paris Saint-Germain. Talks had been ongoing with United for several months over an extension but an agreement could not be found. While at Leigh Sports Village, Earps set new WSL records for most clean sheets in a single season and overall. She also made her mark on United’s history by playing a pivotal role in the club’s first major honour, the Women’s FA Cup, which they won with a 4-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley. On the international stage, Earps won the UEFA Women’s Championship, Women’s Finalissima, SheBelieves Cup and Arnold Clark Cup with England. She retired from international football in May 2025 with a total of 53 caps. Some of the individual accolades that she scooped up include The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper for 2022 and 2023, the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Glove, 2023 BBC Sports Personality of the Year and the 2023 BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year. After two years in France, Earps has sealed her return to England and will play for London City Lionesses. Earps’ reaction Earps said, “I’m over the moon, I’m really looking forward to it. I think the club speaks to exactly what I stand for, I can’t wait to join and get down to business. This is the first day of the next chapter.” “The club’s values represent what I want to represent, and they are passionate about what I want to achieve and change the game in a positive way. All the conversations have been really positive and every time I spoke with the club, I wanted to hear more.” “The vision and ambition, including the new training facility is incredible and I’m looking forward to seeing that develop, it shows what our owner Michele (Kang) and everyone at the club want to do in terms of really going for it. I think there is something really special here.” The shot-stopper added, “It’s about putting a marker down and saying we want to be competitive in a short space of time. I’m looking forward to working alongside Elene (Lete) and the goalkeeping unit. Elene made some great saves and interventions last season. Hopefully we can bounce off each other and work hard and enjoy it.” “My message to the fans is that I’m really excited to get started and make some memories together, I can’t wait to play in front of you all.” “I’m looking forward to getting to know the players, the staff, the style of play and club culture and trying to give everything I can to help the club achieve its collective goals and be as successful as possible. I feel I still have so much left to give to the game, and that’s exactly why I chose London City.” “It won’t be easy, the WSL is extremely competitive. The team had a brilliant 2025/26 season finishing mid-table in their first season, now it’s about climbing the table and working towards finishing as high as possible.” The London City Lionesses finished in sixth place in the WSL, 13 points below United in fourth. 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!
United make contact with 100m Italian superstar as their grip on Fernandes starts to slip – report
Tottenham Hotspur might just have disrupted Manchester United’s transfer plans. Desperate to avoid another relegation battle, Spurs are going all-out in the market to hand high-profile players to Roberto De Zerbi. In recent days, they have seemingly stepped up their efforts to convince Mateus Fernandes to move to North London despite interest from United. Tottenham Hotspur trying to sign Mateus Fernandes On Saturday, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Tottenham Hotspur are nearing an agreement over personal terms with Mateus Fernandes. United remain the Portuguese midfielder’s preferred destination, and there is confidence internally at Old Trafford that they remain in the driving seat to strike an agreement with West Ham United. Still, Spurs’ entry into the race should complicate United’s pursuit as the Hammers now have one more reason to not budge from their £85 million valuation. A report in Italy suggests this development might force United to make a U-turn on another Premier League midfielder. Manchester United make contact for Sandro Tonali Having made Fernandes their priority target, United reportedly informed Newcastle United last week that they will not enter the race to sign Sandro Tonali. However, SportMediaset journalist Orazio Accomando claims United have asked for information about Tonali. The 26-year-old Italian midfielder, known for his relentless work rate and athleticism, is now reportedly being chased by the Red Devils, Arsenal, and Tottenham. Spurs are supposedly pushing the hardest for £100m-rated Tonali’s services. However, both United and Arsenal can offer him Champions League football, which is considered one of the main reasons behind his desire to part ways with the Magpies. Featured image Mike Hewitt 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 Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
Rival PL team opens club-to-club talks to snatch midfield target from under United’s nose – David Ornstein
Tottenham Hotspur have made a major move in an effort to win the race for Manchester United midfield target Sandro Tonali, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has revealed. Tonali interest United have wrapped up a deal with Atalanta for Ederson but that’s just the start of the club’s midfield rebuild. At least two more top-class midfielders are expected before the close of the window, with United keen on having quality depth in the middle of the park ahead of their participation in the Champions League next season. In addition to the likes of Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Mateus Fernandes, United have also been heavily linked with Tonali. It’s looking increasingly likely that Tonali’s time at Newcastle has come to an end, more so after the club’s failure to secure Champions League qualification. His agent pitched him to Arsenal in January, but Newcastle refused to sanction the exit, given the lack of time to find a replacement. In addition to United, Manchester City and Tottenham have also been mentioned to be admirers of Tonali. It’s believed that City’s interest in Tonali is completely separate to their pursuit of Anderson. A return to Italy for Tonali has also been mooted. Newcastle are resigned to losing Tonali, although they remain adamant that he will leave for nothing less than £100m. There have been suggestions that United are prepared to meet this valuation. More recently, a report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that United told Newcastle they do not intend to enter the race for Tonali’s signature. Ornstein has now issued an update, revealing that Tottenham have opened talks with the Magpies to try and strike an agreement for the Italy international. Tonali latest Ornstein writes, “The north London club are vying with Manchester City to sign Tonali if he leaves St James’ Park — but by making club-to-club contact, it steps up the pursuit and underlines their intent to strike a deal.” “Discussions between the 26-year-old midfielder’s representatives and both suitors continue, as they attempt to strike an agreement on personal terms.” The report further states, “Spurs will hope that a high salary offer, head coach Roberto De Zerbi pushing for the transfer and the appeal of London may help swing the situation in their direction.” Ornstein also confirms that Newcastle do indeed want at least £100m to sanction Tonali’s sale. Whether this new development jolts United into action remains to be seen, though it appears they are not pushing particularly hard for Tonali. The 26-year-old made 53 appearances for Newcastle in all competitions last season, contributing three goals as they finished 12th in the Premier League. Feature image Carl Recine 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!
