Manchester United are moving swiftly to beat their Premier League rivals to the signing of one of the most exciting midfielders in England. It has been widely reported that Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is the club’s preferred candidate to replace the departing Casemiro, who has already played his final game for the Red Devils. However, Anderson seems on his way to Manchester City, who are prepared to blow competitors out of the water in terms of wages. Meanwhile, United are in a much stronger position when it comes to the race for the signature of another all-action midfielder. Manchester United confident of signing Mateus Fernandes According to Theatre of Red’s Shaun Connolly, West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes remains a player of considerable interest at Manchester United. More importantly, Connolly adds that “there is a growing confidence of completing deal this summer” for the Portuguese midfielder. Earlier this month, Connolly claimed that United officials are “eager to get the bulk of their work done early” and consider players like Fernandes and Carlos Baleba as “complementary additions” to the existing squad. Fernandes has been described as a “modern-day regista” for the exceptional passing range and ground coverage he offers. Legendary midfielder Roy Keane recently suggested he is a big admirer of the youngster after picking Fernandes over all of Alex Scott, Enzo Fernandez, Ryan Gravenberch, Baleba and even Casemiro. Arsenal are also thought to be interested in the 21-year-old, but a separate report claimed earlier today that Fernandes is prioritising a move to Old Trafford. West Ham’s asking price for Mateus Fernandes Meanwhile, Football Insider reveal that the relegation-threatened Hammers would demand around £50 million for Fernandes, who moved to London from Southampton last year. Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season Appearances35 Minutes per game84 Touches58.8 Key passes1.0 Accurate passes38 Interceptions 1.0 Tackles 2.8 Source: Sofascore Furthermore, United are also understood to be monitoring Fernandes’ teammate Jarrod Bowen, who is expected to exit West Ham if results do not go their way in the final match week on Sunday. The recruitment team at Old Trafford want to reinforce Michael Carrick’s attack with a versatile and Premier League-proven attacker. Featured image Clive Rose 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!
United confident of completing incredible deal for technically gifted star Roy Keane really likes – report
United ready to spend over £100m to land two of their dream targets in the same window, fans will go crazy – report
Manchester United appear to be in no mood to waste time as they look to sign three midfielders this summer. Casemiro has already announced his departure, with the Brazilian expected to sign for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. INEOS are reportedly keen to get rid of Manuel Ugarte, who has proven to be one of the most disappointing signings in the club’s recent history. There are also murmurs that academy graduate Toby Collyer could also leave if the club receives a suitable offer, and this explains the need to sign three midfielders in the summer. Ederson, Mateus Fernandes both in the same window The plan is to sign an elite-level replacement for the five-time Champions League winner, a versatile backup, and a low-cost squad option. Most reports have indicated that the Red Devils are currently focusing on signing a replacement for the Uruguayan first, given the complexities of resolving the Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali situations before the window actually opens. Ederson of Atalanta, Sporting CP skipper Morten Hjulmand and Mateus Fernandes of West Ham United are the names being mentioned currently. It is well known that INEOS prefer Premier League-proven signings, and the Hammers ace fits the bill. He is only 21, making him an even more attractive proposition. INEOS mean business However, the reliable Sully has now claimed that a deal for Ederson is independent to that of Mateus Fernandes. This means a deal for both could be concluded in the same window, which essentially means INEOS are ready to spend even more than initially expected. Understand that any potential deal for Fernandes, is independent to one of Éderson. This doesn’t mean that both deals will happen, but it isn’t either or. Éderson state of play: #MUFC have had fresh positive talks with Atalanta for Éderson with the deal progressing well. This… pic.twitter.com/GQb3dqUSBC — Sully (@SullyTalkz) May 23, 2026 “Understand that any potential deal for (Mateus) Fernandes, is independent to one of Éderson. This doesn’t mean that both deals will happen, but it isn’t either or. “Éderson state of play: MUFC have had fresh positive talks with Atalanta for Éderson with the deal progressing well. Carrick will be delighted if both Mateus Fernandes and Ederson arrive “This isn’t just ‘agent talk’ which some people are speculating – United are in active negotiations with Atalanta. The deal isn’t done but the base fee is expected to be closer to £34M with add-ons. “Éderson would most likely be coming in as a squad option, rather than a starter, is the current feeling. Wilcox, Vivell and the whole recruitment team have approved of the player. “The 26-year-old didn’t play for Atalanta yesterday due to the ongoing negotiations. He has told his agent he only wants United.” Ederson could potentially cost £45 million, factoring in add-ons, while West Ham will likely demand in the region of £60-70 million for Fernandes. While there is no guarantee of United signing both midfielders, this update will delight fans and it shows how serious the co-owners are about giving Michael Carrick the ammunition to launch a serious title challenge next season. Feature image Clive Rose 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
Fabrizio Romano: “Out of this world” maestro only has eyes for United despite the advances of another European giant
Manchester United are expected to sign three midfielders in the summer, and the club appear to be advancing in talks for their first capture of the window. Italian media reports have exaggerated the Red Devils’ interest in Atalanta’s Ederson, with several outlets terming that a deal has already been concluded. Talks over a fee have taken place between both clubs, but as recently relayed by The Peoples Person, most of the done deal reports are premature. The Brazilian is among multiple midfielders being eyed by the 20-time English league champions, and INEOS view the 26-year-old more as a market opportunity rather than their primary target. Another suitor has joined the race for Ederson The ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano has now claimed that another European heavyweight has contacted the player’s camp and the Serie A giants over a possible summer deal. However, Ederson has clearly informed this other suitor, whose identity remains unknown, that he has eyes only on a switch to Old Trafford. “Another club [not Atletico Madrid] have called in recent days to ask about the opportunity to sign Ederson, but he wants to wait for Manchester United,” the Italian said on his YouTube channel. “He’s giving total priority to United. United are currently in talks with Atalanta and his agents.” United yet to give the green light to conclude the deal It might be true, or it could be a case of the player’s agent pushing United to act instead of waiting. Who blinks in this game of double bluff remains to be seen. The three-time Champions League winners are keeping the Brazil international ready as a backup in case a deal for one of their other targets fails to materialise. It is a smart move by INEOS, as they will not want to get dragged into a panic-buy situation like their predecessors, the Glazers. Ederson as a replacement for Manuel Ugarte makes a lot of sense. He has a great engine and is far more comfortable on the ball compared to the Uruguayan. Morten Hjulmand of Sporting CP is another target being looked at by United, and it will be interesting to see which midfielder the club ultimately sign. Feature image Francesco Scaccianoce 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
“It means a lot to me”: Guardiola reveals classy message from Sir Alex after exit announcement
Outgoing Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that legendary Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sent him a message upon the announcement that he will depart the Etihad at the end of the season. Pep to leave On Friday, City confirmed that Guardiola will step down as manager of the side this summer. The Spaniard joined United’s cross-town rivals in July 2016 and has enjoyed a successful 10-year spell at the club, winning 20 major trophies at the time. In contrast, Sir Alex’s 26-year tenure at United, which began before the Premier League’s inception in 1992/93, delivered 28 major honours, including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League triumphs. For two decades, Sir Alex stood as the dominant force in football, constructing a succession of exceptional sides, many of which were built upon a foundation of home-grown talent. Sir Alex’s Premier League title rate stands at 61.9%, having won 13 championships across 21 seasons. Guardiola, by contrast, has secured six titles in 10 seasons, leaving the 55-year-old with a rate of 60%. Guardiola’s tenure at City has often been likened to Sir Alex’s United sides. Notably, while at the helm of Barcelona, Guardiola overcame Ferguson’s United in two Champions League finals. Speaking ahead of his final home game against Aston Villa, Guardiola informed reporters that he received a message from Sir Alex. Pep reveals classy Sir Alex act Pep said, “I know I had incredible success as a manager and it’s nice to be there. One of the biggest compliments I had was I got a message from Sir Alex Ferguson yesterday and that made me so happy.” Elaborating on the nature of the message, Guardiola added, “He congratulated me for the trajectory and for what we achieved. It means a lot to me.” “It’s the kind of recognition that can’t be manufactured, and coming from Ferguson, it carries a weight that no trophy or statistic can replicate.” United are next in action on Sunday when they go away to Brighton & Hove Albion in their final game of the 2025/26 Premier League season. 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!
Fabrizio Romano: Ruthless United inform big-money flop to pack his bags as Carrick revolution gathers pace
Despite finishing third in the Premier League, Manchester United’s newly-announced permanent head coach, Michael Carrick, will understand the importance of revamping the team’s midfield this summer. Casemiro, a pillar of the team’s success in recent seasons, is set to leave and join Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. INEOS have been planning for this day for some time now, and fans were initially delighted when the club swooped for Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte in the summer of 2024. The Uruguayan was expected to fill the void for when the former Real Madrid superstar would call it quits. He had two years to acclimatise and adapt to the rigours of English football. Manuel Ugarte has proven to be a huge disappointment It is safe to say, the 25-year-old has proven to be a major disappointment and the co-owners have realised the folly of their ways and are eager to make things right once the transfer window opens. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils have informed the defensive midfielder that they want him gone in the summer. “For Manuel Ugarte, Man United have been quite clear with the camp of the player,” the Italian said on his YouTube channel. “They want Ugarte to go. What I can tell you now is Man United have been very clear. They want to make some space.” Time for Manuel Ugarte to leave There is interest from Italian and Turkish clubs, and a move to a slower league would suit the Uruguay international, who has struggled to cope with the increased pace and physicality of the English game. He has started only once under Michael Carrick, and the 20-time English league champions succumbed to defeat at the hands of Leeds United in that game. In fact, in the 10 games Manuel Ugarte has started this season, United have emerged victorious only once. That alarming statistic demonstrates his limited impact for the Old Trafford side There were murmurs that he might be kept on as the fourth-choice midfielder, but the United No.25 will not want to hang around for that to materialise. Signing Manuel Ugarte has proven to be a bad call from INEOS It seems a parting of ways is the best call for both parties with INEOS likely to take a hit on their initial investment. United want to replace the Uruguay international with Ederson of Atalanta or Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand. INEOS need to get their act together this time around. Feature image Richard Pelham 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
Just in: After Ederson, £70m EPL star Carrick ‘loves’ gives priority to Man Utd
Manchester United’s midfield plans are beginning to take shape, with the club closing in on West Ham youngster Mateus Fernandes.Over the past 24 hours, there has been significant progress on the Ederson front, with sources claiming that Man Utd and Atalanta have a verbal agreement over a transfer.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYNevertheless, the 26-year-old Brazilian certainly wouldn’t be United’s final addition to the middle of the park, as the midfield might require three new players, especially if Manuel Ugarte is to follow Casemiro to the exit door.Mateus Fernandes favors Man United over other suitorsIn recent weeks, Mateus Fernandes’ candidacy has been gaining steam, with reports claiming Man Utd are ready to shell out £70 million for the young Portuguese.Following last season’s experience at Southampton, the 21-year-old risks suffering back-to-back relegations, as West Ham prepare to battle the odds on the final day of the season.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustNevertheless, the Sporting Club youth product is unlikely to play his football in the Championship next season, as he has demonstrated enough talent to earn a move to a top club.While several suitors have already enquired about the rising star, Carrington insider Sully reveals in his latest update on RoundTable that Fernandes has given his priority to Man Utd. 🚨EXCL: #MUFC believe Mateus Fernandes is giving them priority over other clubs following talks with his reps. 21 yo is high on the shortlist with Carrick and data team rating him highly too. Deal dependant on #WHU asking fee + PL situation. @UtdDistrict https://t.co/oqs2RW0IGf — Sully (@SullyTalkz) May 23, 2026The source adds that Michael Carrick, who has been granted larger powers on the market compared with Ruben Amorim, is all in favour of the transfer. The report insists that the 44-year-old ‘absolutely ‘loves’ the midfielder’s profile.Sully believes finding an agreement with the player on personal terms won’t be an issue, but MUFC will have to negotiate a deal with the Hammers, who will be seeking a sizable windfall on a player who cost them £38 million last summer.Why Man Utd are mesmerised by FernandesIn addition to Carrick’s endorsement, Mateus Fernandes also has the full backing of his compatriot and playing idol, Bruno Fernandes.The youngster can occupy various roles in midfield thanks to an impressive arsenal. The Portuguese international combines technical skills with a strong physique and a willingness to fight for every ball. Arteta wanted Bruno Guimarães all of those years ago. Mateus Fernandes is a similar profile. Midfield metronome. Physical, psychological, and technical giant. Him and Declan Rice in midfield would dominate games on all fronts. Arsenal’s version of Bernardo and Rodri. WOW 🤯 pic.twitter.com/s4fo7qcyNg — EBL (@EBL2017) May 14, 2026While Elliot Anderson might be the ultimate dream for Man Utd supporters, Nottingham Forest have set their asking price at £120 million. And with Manchester City hot on the Englishman’s heels, it will be difficult for Man Utd to prevail in that race.Nevertheless, Ederson and Fernandes can be solid additions, while Kobbie Mainoo has proven his competence during the second half of the season.Perhaps one more signing would be required, but securing the Brazilian and the Portuguese stars would be a great start for INEOS.
Not only Carrick – Romano reveals five imminent Man Utd contract renewals
After confirming Michael Carrick as head coach for next season, Manchester United will also tie down Steven Holland and the other members of the technical staff.On Friday, the Premier League giants announced Carrick has penned a new contract valid until June 2028.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe 44-year-old returned to the club as an interim coach following Ruben Amorim’s sacking in January. But after securing a respectable third-place finish, INEOS identified him as the best available option for the permanent role.Romano confirms Steve Holland will remain at Man UnitedSince his arrival in January, Carrick has been working with a small but tight group of coaches. According to Fabrizio Romano, the technical staff will remain largely intact for next season, as the manager’s main five collaborators will also sign two-year contracts.“Steve Holland, Johnathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion, and Craig Mawson will continue with Man United as part of Carrick’s staff. They will sign two-year contracts,” confirmed the Italian journalist on his X (formerly Twitter) account. 🚨 Steve Holland, Johnathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion and Craig Mawson will continue with Man United as part of Carrick staff. They wll signed two-year contracts. pic.twitter.com/bclgnx18Ac — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 23, 2026Steve Holland has been acting as Carrick’s assistant coach, a role he had played for eight years with the English national team, serving as Gareth Southgate’s second-in-command between 2016 and 2024.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe 56-year-old is the most experienced member of the group and is considered the main tactical strategist. The Stockport native also happens to be a boyhood Man Utd supporter.Holland wasn’t planning to linger at Man Utd for too long, but he decided to make a U-turn and extend his collaboration with Carrick and the rest of the crew.Who are Carrick’s other four technical collaborators at Man UtdDuring Carrick’s time at Middlesbrough, Jonathan Woodgate was his assistant coach. Therefore, the former Real Madrid defender was a natural inclusion, despite his history at arch-rivals, Leeds United.After hanging up his boots at the end of the previous campaign, Jonny Evans was appointed as United’s Loan Player Manager last summer, but vacated his position in December, only to be recalled a month later for a more proactive role as part of Carrick’s team.Travis Binnion started working at Man Utd’s academy in 2019 and took charge of the U21 side in 2023. He joined the first team when Darren Fletcher was appointed caretaker for two games, before being confirmed by Carrick.Finally, Craig Mawson has been United’s goalkeeping coach since 2019, when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was in charge, and has gone on to work with six other head coaches, including caretakers.
Moretto drops seismic transfer bomb as Man Utd reach club-to-club agreement for first summer signing
Manchester United are reportedly on the cusp of finalising the transfer of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who is set to become their first summer signing.The Red Devils are planning to sign two or three new midfielders this summer. Michael Carrick is already operating with limited options in this department, and he’s about to lose a key player in Casemiro.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYMoreover, the Premier League giants are hoping to cut their losses by offloading Manuel Ugarte after two disappointing campaigns at Old Trafford.Man Utd secure an agreement with Atalanta for EdersonOver the past few months, United have been linked with a flurry of midfielders, including Premier League top stars like Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson.Nevertheless, Ederson, who has been on the club’s radar for more than a year now, has suddenly surfaced as a main target.Recent reports from Italy and England confirmed that Man Utd are pushing to secure Ederson’s services and make him their first summer arrival.On Friday, Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino left the Brazilian on the bench in the team’s final game of the season against Fiorentina.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustFollowing the 1-1 draw, the Italian manager confirmed that his decision stemmed from the latest development on the transfer market.“It was a decision we agreed with the lad because there’s something there at the transfer market level,” Palladino told TuttoMercatoWeb during his post-match press conference.“The fact that such a player is being followed by such a big club should be a source of pride.”On Saturday morning, Italian journalist Matteo Moretto insisted that Man Utd and Atalanta have found a verbal agreementThe transfer market expert added that Ederson already has an accord with the EPL giants on personal terms, so the parties only need to sort out the final details before finalising the transfer.“Éderson towards Manchester United. The two clubs have reached a verbal agreement and the player has already found an understanding on the contract,” posted Moretto on his X (formerly Twitter) account.“The very last details on the fees need to be sorted out. New talks in the coming days to reach the final closure. Éderson verso il Manchester United. I due club hanno raggiunto un accordo verbale e il calciatore ha già trovato un’intesa sul contratto. Da sistemare gli ultimissimi dettagli sulle commissioni. Nuovi colloqui nei prossimi giorni per arrivare alla chiusura definitiva. Le… https://t.co/i0zV4PExfC — Matteo Moretto (@MatteMoretto) May 23, 2026Ederson to become the third Atalanta player to join Man Utd in recent yearsMan Utd have been constantly recruiting players from Serie A in recent years, and have already signed two from Atalanta.United splashed circa £24 million to buy Amad Diallo in 2021. The winger was too young and inexperienced at the time, but he sharpened his skills at Rangers and Sunderland before rejoining Man Utd’s ranks in 2023 and becoming a regular feature for the club.The Ivorian was arguably one of the best MUFC players during Ruben Amorim’s tumultuous 14-month reign, even though he had to play as a wing-back at times.While Amad is widely considered a brilliant coup, the same cannot be said about Rasmus Hojlund, who cost Man Utd £64 million in the summer of 2023. The Danish striker had a decent first season, followed by a woeful second campaign, where he only managed to score four league goals.The 24-year-old was pushed out of the club following Benjamin Sesko’s arrival last summer, joining Napoli on loan. Hojlund swiftly found his finishing touch at the Stadio Maradona, helping the Partenopei secure a Champions League spot next season and subsequently triggering his obligation-to-buy clause.
“Real leader” – Carrick told Man Utd that ‘underrated’ Red must remain at Old Trafford
Michael Carrick, Manager of Middlesbrough pictured during the Sky Bet Championship match between Coventry City FC and Middlesbrough FC at The Coventry Building Society Arena on May 03, 2025 in Coventry, England. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images) Manchester United boss Michael Carrick is determined to keep Diogo Dalot at the club at all costs, as he considers him a key piece in his tactical jigsaw.Having joined the Red Devils in the summer of 2018, the Portuguese international is considered one of the most senior players at the club. He has thus far made 246 appearances for MUFC, contributing with 10 goals and 20 assists.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe right-back initially struggled to carve out a place in the team, so he spent the 2020/21 campaign on loan at AC Milan, before returning to Old Trafford and becoming a staple at the club.Michael Carrick refuses to sanction Diogo Dalot’s departureIn recent days, Dalot emerged as a transfer target for Real Madrid. The 27-year-old is reportedly wanted by his compatriot and former Man Utd boss Jose Mourinho, who is about to finalise his return to the Spanish capital side.But according to the Manchester Evening News journalist Tyronne Marshall, the Premier League giants have no plans to deprive themselves of the player’s services this summer, especially with Carrick keen to retain him.The source notes that Dalot might not be every fan’s Cup of Tea, but he is ‘valued’ at the club for his personality and professionalism, and is considered a ‘real leader’ in the dressing room.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustMarshall also notes that the Braga native was played slightly out of position by Ruben Amorim (as a wing-back on both flanks). However, his performances improved when Carrick restored him to his original right-back role. The head coach reportedly appreciates the full-back’s ‘underrated’ role in the short-passing range.Therefore, MEN expect Man Utd to head into the 2026/27 campaign with the same right-back options of Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui, while focusing on bolstering other departments.Carrington insider Sully also confirmed this news in his latest update on RoundTable. The journalist reveals that Carrick has already informed the club that Dalot ‘must remain’ at Old Trafford.Why Carrick is keen to keep Diogo DalotAlthough he isn’t the most explosive full-back, the Poto youth product has been a regular starter under successive Man Utd managers for a reason.Carrick’s insistence on maintaining Dalot is best justified by the team’s results since the 44-year-old took over from Amorim in January.Curiously, Carrick never lost a match with Dalot in his starting lineup. On the contrary, the United head coach never won a contest with the Portuguese omitted from the starting lineup. Carrick’s Man Utd stats Matches Win Draw Loss Dalot in Starting XI 13 11 (84%) 2 (16%) 0 (0%) Dalot out of Starting XI 3 0 (0%) 1 (33%) 2 (67%) Therefore, Dalot might just be Carrick’s lucky charm, so one could hardly fault the manager for his desire to keep him at Carrington.
“Talks held” – Man Utd insider reveals swift progress in INEOS quest to sign ‘strongest midfielder in the world’
INEOS are floundering to make sales in the coming weeks. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) Manchester United are reportedly pushing to secure the services of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who has now emerged as the club’s top target.The Red Devils will part ways with Casemiro, who already bid the Old Trafford faithful farewell last weekend. Moreover, Manuel Ugarte will be placed on the transfer list following two disappointing campaigns at the club.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThis leaves Kobbie Mainoo as the only out-and-out central midfielder who is guaranteed to remain at Man Utd beyond the current campaign.Man United closing in on agreement with Atalanta for EdersonDue to the alarming deficiency in midfield, bolstering this department will be the top priority for United directors Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell heading into the summer transfer window.The club has been repeatedly linked with top Premier League stars like Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Carlos Baleba, but their respective clubs could ask for astronomical figures, potentially north of £100 million (especially in Anderson’s case).Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustWhile making one hefty investment cannot be ruled out, Man Utd certainly cannot afford to spend a multitude of enormous transfer fees for the same department in the summer.Therefore, INEOS are seeking cost-effective solutions, and one of them could be Ederson, who has swiftly climbed his way up the shortlist.The 26-year-old has cemented himself as one of the best well-rounded midfielders in Serie A since joining Atalanta in 2022. With his contract expiring next year, La Dea is keen to sell him this summer, but insists on pocketing €45 million (or £39m).In his latest update on RoundTable, MUFC insider Sully denies an agreement between the two clubs as other sources claimed, but reveals that the Premier League giants have held talks with the Serie A side, and they were able to make important progress.United also need to find an accord with Ederson and his entourage on personal terms, but the journalist believes this shouldn’t be a stumbling block.Why Ederson is the perfect partner for Kobbie MainooThe Brazilian midfielder has been on Man Utd’s shortlist for quite some time now. Last year, we argued that Ederson would be the ideal partner for Bruno Fernandes in the double pivot for Ruben Amorim’s system.Nevertheless, what was said about the Ederson-Fernandes partnership is also applicable to Ederson-Mainoo, as the Brazilian can be the perfect foil for the young Englishman.The 26-year-old was hailed by Italian journalist Damien Er Faina as the ‘strongest defensive midfielder in the world’. #Ederson è il centrocampista difensivo più forte al mondo.#AtalantaRealMadrid — Damiano Er Faina (@Erfaina1988) December 10, 2024While this might be a slight exaggeration, Ederson certainly possesses impressive physical traits to complement the youngster’s exceptional technical skills.
