Manchester United are not finding it easy to secure any of their primary midfield targets so far. It is important to note that the likes of Atalanta’s Ederson and Mateus Fernandes of West Ham are viewed more as versatile back-up options rather than the Red Devils’ first-choice replacements for Casemiro. The aforementioned duo could potentially serve as Manuel Ugarte’s direct replacement when the Uruguayan departs, while the other could be a useful squad option. It remains to be seen who will end up occupying which role but both deals are considered independent of each other. United’s top midfield targets Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest remains INEOS’ top priority, but the Englishman’s high price and his preference for Manchester City make a move unlikely at this stage. This is why the co-owners turned their attention to Newcastle ace Sandro Tonali. The Magpies are in dire straits, having failed to qualify for Europe, and need to balance their books with a couple of major sales. The Italian is considered their most sellable asset, and the 20-time English league champions are among his most serious suitors. While there have been mixed reports regarding his price tag, Eddie Howe’s team will look to initiate a bidding war in order to extract the highest possible price. What is holding United back from completing Sandro Tonali deal Combined with his wage demands, and it is clear why completing a move for the former AC Milan ace could prove problematic. That was confirmed by Fabrizio Romano as well. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he explained, “Manchester United have been on a mission in the recent days in Italy to discuss about several topics. “For example, a player they really appreciate is Sandro Tonali and his agents are based in Italy. Tonali is obviously playing at Newcastle. “Manchester United believe Tonali at the moment is really expensive, so at the moment the price remains the problem. But the appreciation from Man Utd for Tonali is clear.” As it stands, pulling off a deal for Sandro Tonali, Fernandes, and Ederson might be beyond United’s ability, unless they are ruthless when it comes to player sales. 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
“At the moment”: Fabrizio Romano reveals why United have hit the brakes in their pursuit of PL magician
“We worked on that”: United goalscorer on how training plan came together perfectly vs Brighton, team have unsung hero to thank
Manchester United thrashed Brighton & Hove Albion 3-0 at the Amex Stadium on Sunday in their last Premier League game of the season, signing off in some style. It was a fantastic day all around as Bruno Fernandes broke the Premier League assist record, while Amad returned to form after a difficult patch since the new year. And on his first start in 15 games, Patrick Dorgu shone brightly, heading in the visitors’ first goal of the game before grabbing an assist for Fernandes’ strike in the second half. The Dane is a completely changed player under Michael Carrick, with a switch to left wing doing wonders for his confidence. Patrick Dorgu delighted with his goal Speaking to MUTV after the game, the former Lecce star expressed his delight at helping his team pick up three points to end the season on a high. “I’m really happy with my goal. We are all delighted with the three points and we can head off to vacation happy.” The Denmark international also revealed that the team had been practising the exact same corner routine that worked a treat against the Seagulls. During training, Bruno Fernandes was putting balls on a sixpence for Patrick Dorgu to attack and he was not quite as successful, but thankfully, everything panned out perfectly during the game. Training routine under Jonny Evans worked a treat “We worked on that in training yesterday. I knew he [Bruno Fernandes] was going to put the ball there. I was just working on getting past my marker. “Really happy to score. I did not do that in training yesterday so it was good to do it in the game. I’m really happy for Bruno to break the assist record.” As previously revealed by Fernandes, Jonny Evans has taken charge of set-piece training, and his work on the training ground is certainly paying off. The 21-year-old was also full of praise for the Portuguese superstar, describing him a role model and a great captain. Patrick Dorgu lavishes praise on Bruno Fernandes “He’s a great role model, good captain, good player, good off the pitch as well. It is really nice to have him on our team and you can see everyone enjoys playing with him. “He always tries to find his teammate before scoring himself, so it is great to play with him.” It is remarkable to think that in four months, Carrick has transformed this team and helped them qualify for the Champions League courtesy of their third-place Premier League finish. Patrick Dorgu acknowledged the head coach’s impact, while explaining how the squad have rallied together to get out of their rut under Ruben Amorim. Patrick Dorgu on Carrick’s impact “It was a tough start and then a change of coach. It was not easy but we stuck together as a group and it is easy to see the impact since Carrick took charge. “Everyone has been playing great and you can see out on the pitch every time as we keep getting the results fans want.” Hopefully, this trend can continue in the new season and Patrick Dorgu will have the chance to cement his place as the team’s new left winger during pre-season. Feature 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
Five-year contract agreed: Man Utd verbally tie up first summer signing immediately after final game
Ederson has reportedly verbally agreed a five-year deal with Manchester United.That’s according to Ben Jacobs, who adds that club-to-club talks with Atalanta are ‘advancing’.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYUnited edge closer to complete Ederson agreementThe prospective deal has been developing rapidly in recent days, with United now seemingly looking to ramp up their pursuit following the culmination of the campaign.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustEderson, 26, had agreed personal terms with Atletico Madrid back in January, but the Spaniards were unwilling to shell out his £39 million asking price.That paved the way for the Red Devils to get involved, while Atleti turned their attention to Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Joao Gomes instead.Who else are United interested in along with Ederson?Jacobs adds that United are also well among the mix of suitors for Mateus Fernandes. 🇵🇹 Meteus Fernandes’ price hinges on West Ham’s fate: around €55m if they’re relegated, closer to €80m if they stay in the PL. Man Utd are very keen on the 21yo, with initial talks already held with his camp. Player open to joining #MUFC and personal terms won’t be an issue. pic.twitter.com/NZOIpWo5Gi — Marcó Alcaraz (@MarcoAlcaraz_) May 24, 2026A deal for the 21-year-old has become considerably easier this afternoon due to West Ham being relegated on the final day, meaning his tenure with the Irons is poised to be cut short after less than a year.Aurelien Tchouameni is also ‘high’ in INEOS’ thinking, as well as Elliot Anderson, who has been deemed the ‘dream’ and ‘top’ target.Manchester City are confident they will come out on top for the Nottingham Forest talisman, though it remains to be seen whether Anderson’s mind may be swayed by the fact that the Blues will now be undergoing a period of transition in the aftermath of Pep Guardiola’s departure. Vítor Pereira on Elliot Anderson’s future: “I don’t have the answer. If you ask me if he deserves the best clubs in the world, he deserves. “He has a lot of quality, he is a talent. But he is our player and I am very happy with him. “The market is the market, I cannot… pic.twitter.com/rGjrSqjGg7 — Nathan Salt (@NathSalt1) May 24, 2026As for the heavily-linked Sandro Tonali, it’s said that his price tag would have to drop in order for United to consider a transfer feasible.
Man Utd issue social media statement to confirm that one Red has just played his ‘final minutes’ for the club
Michael Carrick granted Tyrell Malacia a brief cameo this afternoon to mark the end of his four-year Manchester United tenure.The club took to social media to announce that the full-back had been brought on for his ‘final minutes in a United shirt’, with his contract expiring at the end of June. 🔄 On comes @TyrellMalaciia for his final minutes in a United shirt. Go well, Ty ❤️ pic.twitter.com/2oxksqYeFC — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 24, 2026Tyrell Malacia enjoys final outing as a RedMalacia replaced Luke Shaw in the 81st minute as the Reds were seeing out the final stages of their comfortable 3-0 final-day victory over Brighton and Hove Albion.Goals from Patrick Dorgu, Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes sealed the 12th win of Carrick’s tenure, which will now extend into the new campaign after it was announced on Friday that he had signed a permanent deal.Last Sunday, when United overturned Nottingham Forest in their final home outing of 2025/2026, Malacia was presented with a commemorative framed shirt with his name and number on, while Carrick also encouraged supporters to wish him well in his endeavours – wherever they may be. Nice touch for a signed shirt presentation in front of the Stretford End for the departing Tyrell Malacia #mufc pic.twitter.com/lZTR912EyX — Nathan Salt (@NathSalt1) May 17, 2026How Malacia’s United tenure played outThe 26-year-old joined United back in July 2022 in a £14.7 million switch from Feyenoord, becoming Erik ten Hag’s first signing as club manager.He enjoyed a prominent yet rotational role in his maiden season while rivalling Shaw at left-back, before sustaining a serious knee injury at the end of the term that led to him being out of action for a whopping 18 months.By the time Malacia was fit and ready to return to action, he had already been replaced in the squad, which led to him being sent on loan to PSV Eindhoven in February 2025.When the Eredivisie outfit opted against signing him, he again returned to United last summer, but had numerous transfers collapse at the final stages, hence seeing out his contract in Manchester.It remains to be seen where he will look to ply his trade next. Casemiro, who agreed with Carrick that his last appearance would be last weekend’s fixture, is reportedly on the verge of signing for Inter Miami as a free agent. 💬 “It was decided that last week would be his last game. “I think it went as well as we could have hoped. He’s been fantastic for us.” Michael has confirmed that @Casemiro is unavailable for Sunday, and has played his match for United ❤️ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 21, 2026
Michael Carrick confirms why another Red is absent along with Casemiro vs Brighton after summer exit agreement
Diogo Dalot has missed Manchester United’s final game of the campaign through injury.The full-back was replaced by Noussair Mazraoui in the starting XI for today’s clash with Brighton and Hove Albion, meaning his focus is now fully on a swift recovery ahead of Portugal’s World Cup opener on June 17.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYDiogo Dalot turns attention to international duty29 of Dalot’s 34 Premier League appearances this term have come as a starter, so he’ll be feeling aggrieved to have had to sit out this afternoon, especially with the Reds currently cruising to a comfortable victory at 3-0.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustIt’s already been confirmed that the defender has been included in Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad, where he’ll link up with his club skipper Bruno Fernandes, who enters the tournament in world-class form after setting his own PL assist record. Officially in a league of his own 📊 Bruno Fernandes now has the most assists (21) of any player in a single season in Premier League history, setting an entirely new record. 🥇#MUFC pic.twitter.com/eikqCCoojd — Stretty News (@StrettyNews) May 24, 2026Dalot tipped for surprising Real Madrid moveReports in recent weeks have seen Dalot heavily linked with a shock switch to Real Madrid, primarily due to the impending arrival of new head coach Jose Mourinho. Mourinho signed the Braga native back in 2018 in a £19 million deal from Porto, and has seemingly set his sights on a reunion at the Santiago Bernabeu.Long-serving right-back Dani Carvajal has bid farewell to Los Blancos before his contract expires at the end of June, while Trent Alexander-Arnold has also failed to impress in his maiden season, hence the new links to Dalot. Diogo Dalot reacts quickest to open the scoring for Manchester United 💥 pic.twitter.com/vJw5uT9wg4 — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 4, 2025When pressed on why the 27-year-old had been left out of his side, Michael Carrick told reporters at the Amex: “He’s absolutely fine. Just rotation and getting the younger players into the squad.“He’s been fantastic and played a lot of games. He’ll be with Portugal next week, so there are no worries.”Why has Casemiro been left out?Elsewhere, Casemiro has also been omitted on the final day.He reached an agreement with United to be dropped for the fixture in order to begin his World Cup preparations early, as well as finalise an imminent switch to Inter Miami. 💬 “It was decided that last week would be his last game. “I think it went as well as we could have hoped. He’s been fantastic for us.” Michael has confirmed that @Casemiro is unavailable for Sunday, and has played his match for United ❤️ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 21, 2026
Man Utd star hits career-first milestone vs Brighton as INEOS mull over his summer replacement
Luke Shaw’s inclusion in the starting XI this afternoon means he has started every single Premier League fixture this campaign.Indeed, the full-back being in from the off against Brighton and Hove Albion confirms that he has hit the 38/38 milestone for the first time in his career.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYLuke Shaw starts 38th Premier League matchWhile a commendable personal feat for Shaw, who has undoubtedly been Manchester United’s most injury-prone player over the last decade, there are still concerns over his long-term fitness.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustReports have suggested that INEOS will be in the market for a new left-back when the window opens next month as they prepare for United’s return to Champions League football next season and, therefore, a more packed fixture schedule.The side exiting both cup competitions at the earliest possible stages this term has led to United playing their fewest games in a single campaign since 1915.United preparing for a major summer overhaulAs a result, depth will be essential in all areas of the squad when Michael Carrick officially takes the reins of his first transfer window.It’s common knowledge that the midfield will take priority following the absence of Casemiro, who isn’t involved against the Seagulls after reaching an agreement that last week’s win over Nottingham Forest would be his final outing.Along with the veteran, Manuel Ugarte looks nailed-on to be sold just two years into his contract.He has been left out of the side once again by Carrick, with his most recent outing coming in the defeat to Leeds United on April 13.
Former Liverpool utility man emerges as Manchester United target, enquiry made
(Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) Manchester United are looking to bring in a full-back in the summer, and they have identified Neco Williams as a target.According to a report from CaughtOffside, Manchester United have already made enquiries for the player. Williams can operate as a right back as well as a left back. He has two goals and four assists this season.Neco Williams has done well for Nottingham ForestThe 25-year-old has been excellent for Nottingham Forest, and the club is unwilling to sanction his departure. In fact, they are hoping to agree on a new contract with the defender. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United decide to try their luck with an offer for him.Williams could fancy joining a big club, and the opportunity to play for Manchester United will be difficult for him to turn down. He has established himself as a reliable performer in the Premier League, and this could be the right time for him to join a big club.Williams deserves a big moveManchester United will be hoping to convince the player to join the club. They can offer him Champions League football and the platform to compete for trophies. At Nottingham Forest, he is unlikely to be able to compete at the highest level.Nottingham Forest have been fighting for survival this season, and quality players will want to compete at a higher level. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Multiple Premier League clubs are keeping tabs on his situation, and the 25-year-old will look to sort out his future quickly.The former Liverpool Academy graduate is certainly good enough to compete at a high-level, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. His history with Liverpool might not make him a very popular candidate among Manchester United fans, but there is no doubt that he is a quality player who would help them improve.Manchester United have been tracking Williams for over a year.
“Massive club with so much history”: Prolific 49-G/A attacker opens door to Man United switch
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) Christos Tzolis has just handed Manchester United major encouragement regarding a potential transfer by admitting that it would be difficult for him to turn down a move to Old Trafford. The player has scored 21 goals this season and picked up 28 assists. He is in the form of his life, and he could prove to be a very useful acquisition for Manchester United. They need more cutting-edge in the final third, and the 24-year-old can operate on either flank. Tzolis will add goals, creativity, and flair to the team.Tzolis opens door to Man United moveTzolis has been linked with multiple top clubs in recent weeks, but he has claimed that he is happy at the Belgian club. However, it will be difficult for him to turn down a massive club like Manchester United with a lot of history.“Man United could convince me,” he admitted to Het Nieuwsblad. “Such a massive club with so much history. It would be hard to say no to that.”Man United could use Christos TzolisManchester United will look to do well in the Champions League and the Premier League next season. They need more quality players are there disposal. They need a deeper squad to rotate the team and keep their key players fresh. Adding another quality striker and a winger would be a wise decision.The Greek winger has shown his quality in Belgium with Club Brugge, and he could be tempted to make a step up in his career. Manchester United could give him the platform to test himself in the Premier League, and it could help him improve further.It will be interesting to see whether Manchester United is tempted to make a move for him in the summer, especially after the player’s comments. They have the financial muscle to convince the Belgian club, and it could be a deal worth doing for them.Manchester United have been keeping tabs on Tzolis for several seasons.
Enquiry made: Man United ready to challenge Arsenal for €80m-rated defender
Michael Carrick, Interim Head Coach of Manchester United, arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford on January 17, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) Maxi Araujo has been linked with a move away from Sporting CP at the end of the season.Manchester United and Arsenal are interested in signing the player, according to a report from A BOLA.Man United initiate move for Maxi AraujoThe report claims that Manchester United have already made enquiries about signing the 26-year-old defender, and that Arsenal have also made an approach. However, the Portuguese club is hoping to keep the left back at the club for another season.He has an €80 million release clause in his contract, and they are under no pressure to sanction his departure this summer. It will be interesting to see whether Manchester United is willing to make a substantial offer to get the deal done. It is unlikely any club would pay €80 million for the left back, and Manchester United will look to sign him for a reasonable fee.Araujo could replace Luke ShawThey need a quality left back, and the 26-year-old Uruguay international could be the ideal long-term replacement for Luke Shaw. He has impressed against top teams in the UEFA Champions League, and he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League as well. The defender has recorded 12 goal contributions this season, and he could help Manchester United improve at both ends of the pitch.With Arsenal also keen on the player, Manchester United needs to act quickly in order to win the race for his signature. Given that the Portuguese club is not keen on selling him, Manchester United might have to pay over the odds to change their stance.The 26-year-old defender will certainly be attracted to the idea of joining one of the biggest clubs in the world. Both Arsenal and Manchester United could provide him with the platform to showcase his qualities at the highest level, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up.
INEOS targeting “amazing” 22-year-old to reshape Manchester United midfield
(Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images) Manchester United have identified Alex Scott as a target for the summer transfer window.The 22-year-old has had a very impressive season with Bournemouth, and INEOS believes that he would be the right profile of a midfielder for the club. He has been hailed as “amazing” this season.Alex Scott would improve Man UnitedManchester United need someone who will add energy, control and composure in the middle of the park. Scott has the technical attributes to play for a big club, and he could prove to be a very useful acquisition for Manchester United.They have secured Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign, and they will be up against top-quality teams next season. They need someone who can help them control the midfield better in games. Scott can control the tempo of the game and will help drive the team forward with his creativity and flair.The 22-year-old playmaker has scored four goals in all competitions this season.The opportunity to play for Manchester United could be tempting for the young midfielder.Meanwhile, Manchester United are looking at other Bournemouth players as well.Scott is a player in demandMeanwhile, clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal are keeping tabs on his development. However, a report from TEAMtalk claims that Manchester United is most serious about getting the deal done.The Cherries will not want to lose a key player like him easily, and Manchester United might have to pay a substantial fee to convince them. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. The 22-year-old has all the attributes to develop into a Premier League star. He could be a key player for club and country with the right guidance.Manchester United should do everything in their power to get the deal done. The 22-year-old could form a superb partnership with Kobbie Mainoo.
