BACK David Tully May 23rd 2026 This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. Man Utd manager Michael Carrick is keen for the Red Devils to sign Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, according to reports in Italy. Writing on his personal website, journalist Gianluca Di Marzio said that Carrick “specifically wants” the 26-year-old at Old Trafford. Tonali is believed to have a “gentleman’s agreement” with the Magpies that he can leave St James’ Park after failing to qualify for the Champions League. However, the Italian international will not be available on the cheap, with his asking price having been set at around €100m (£87m). What does it mean for Man Utd’s pursuit of Ederson? It does appear that Carrick’s side are closing in on signing the Atalanta player. The Brazilian was not in the matchday squad for the 1-1 draw against Fiorentina on Friday night. Asked about his absence after the game, head coach Raffaele Palladino said: “Ederson is out because a major club is following him. It was a decision we agreed with the boy because there is something there at the transfer market level.” Despite it looking likely that the midfielder will make the switch to Manchester, though, Di Marzio says the interest in Tonali is “independent of Ederson.” Buy a brand new 2026/27 Man Utd home shirt from Fanatics here The midfield transfer kitty could soon be spent in full It has been claimed that United have put aside around £150m to strengthen the club’s options in the middle of the park. If Ederson does end up costing £46m (as some reports suggest), then the remaining funds could go towards recruiting Tonali. Many would question whether Director of Football Jason Wilcox is overspending on both players, but it is believed he is keen on getting deals done early in the summer, preferably before the World Cup. With Tonali not being at the tournament after Italy failed to qualify, the Red Devils can afford to take longer negotiating that transfer. Want more news on Man Utd? Add Man U News as a preferred source on Google David Tully David has worked as a football reporter for the last fifteen years. Having started as an intern at Snack Media, he then went on to become a freelancer, working on various different sites. At the start of 2023, he took up his current role as content writer for the Football News Network.
REPORT: Carrick ‘Specifically Wants’ £87M Rated Midfielder At Man Utd As Well As Ederson
United close in on £60m playmaker after major breakthrough in talks, Old Trafford is his “dream move” – report
Manchester United are in pole position to sign Mateus Fernandes after a major breakthrough in negotiations with the West Ham midfield maestro, according to an inside source. Fernandes 2.0 While Elliot Anderson has long been considered the primary target for INEOS this summer, there is growing acceptance that the Nottingham Forest and England star will choose Manchester City. Real Madrid’s state of turmoil, encapsulated by a physical fight between Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde, had given hope of striking a deal for either player — but this is not considered a likely prospect. An ambitious raid for Newcastle United’s talisman Sandro Tonali was also on the cards, but the Magpies’ prohibitive asking price has cooled interest in the 26-year-old Italian. This has led United to identify alternatives, such as Fernandes, who has enjoyed a superb campaign at the heart of Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, despite their struggles with relegation. The Hammers are currently 18th, two points behind bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur with a much worse goal difference. Barring an unlikely turn of events, they will finish in the bottom three. The 21-year-old, who hails his compatriot Bruno Fernandes as an idol, has quickly risen to become a high priority for the Red Devils, particularly as West Ham’s descent into the Championship would slash their asking price. United’s captain, fresh from the best season of his career in a red shirt, is understood to have recommended his namesake to INEOS — with key figures at Old Trafford said to be in complete agreement. A well-placed source reveals United’s recruitment team have been blown away by Fernandes’ performances and underlying metrics. This is mirrored by head coach Michael Carrick, who “loves” the former Southampton and Sporting CP star. United are not alone in their admiration, however. Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are keeping tabs on the situation at the London Stadium, while Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain made contact with the player’s camp last month. The Theatre of Dreams Crucially, Fernandes is said to see joining United as a “dream move” — a preference he has raised during negotiations with the club’s executive. “Roundtable understands that Fernandes sees the opportunity to join United as his dream move and is said to be very open to joining, with personal terms not expected to be an issue,” the report states. “As for United, they believe that a move to Old Trafford is Fernandes’ priority, based on conversations they have had with representatives of the player. However, Fernandes is high on United’s shortlist of central midfielders and is rated highly internally by the scouting department and Michael Carrick himself.” If West Ham are able to survive the season finale on Sunday — they face Leeds United at home, while Tottenham Hotspur welcome Everton to north London — then they plan to offer the Portugal international a new contract on improved terms. But if they cannot, a bid in the region of £60m may be enough to seal a dream move for the Olhão native to the Theatre of Dreams. Final Thoughts Fernandes is a quality operator with the ability to play in a variety of roles in midfield. He possesses a potent pairing of physical and technical attributes, and is known to have an outstanding work ethic and is a positive presence on and off the pitch. If United can strike a £60m deal alongside a big-money raid for one of their first-choice targets, such as Tonali, it would provide the exact injection of quality United need to fix their stalling engine room. 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 Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.
Official: United announce who will be Michael Carrick’s coaching staff for next season
Manchester United have confirmed the set-up of Michael Carrick’s backroom staff following confirmation of his stay. Carrick lands job Earlier this week, United confirmed the appointment of Carrick as permanent head coach on a two-year contract. Carrick has done a tremendous job since replacing Ruben Amorim in the Old Trafford dugout at the start of the year. He has won 11 of the 16 Premier League games he has taken charge of, guiding the club to a guaranteed third-placed finish and a return to the Champions League. No top-flight club has won more points than the 36 United have collected since Carrick’s arrival on 13 January. Despite Carrick’s good results and improved performances, United had maintained that they would not make any knee-jerk reactions and would only make an appointment after considering all suitable and available options. But the job was evidently Carrick’s to lose, and things started falling into place after the football department recommended his appointment to the executive committee under Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Reacting to his appointment, Carrick stressed the importance of looking forward and aiming to restore the club to its former glories. Now, United have confirmed Carrick’s full coaching set-up. Backroom team United have released a statement saying, “Manchester United are pleased to confirm that Michael Carrick’s coaching team have also committed to the club for a further two years.” “When Carrick first returned to the club back in January, he did so with assistants Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion and Craig Mawson – all of whom are set to remain at the club.” Holland boasts a wealth of experience drawn from his time in the England national team, Chelsea and more recently, Japanese outfit Yokohama F. Marinos. Woodgate and Carrick worked closely at Middlesbrough before moving together to Old Trafford. Meanwhile, Evans enjoyed two outstanding spells with United before assuming the role of loan and pathways manager. He briefly parted ways with the Red Devils, only to then return to join forces with Carrick. Binnion, who coached United’s Under-18s and Under-21s, moved up to the first-team staff under Darren Fletcher’s interim spell and stayed on after Carrick’s appointment. Mawson has been at United as goalkeeping coach since 2019. Featured image Michael Regan 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!
24-yo star claims he will “refuse” Crystal Palace, ready to consider transfer to “massive club” United
A left-winger signing is really needed at Manchester United. INEOS must finally replace Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, who were the club’s last natural left wingers, but are all no longer at Old Trafford. Admittedly, Matheus Cunha has been a hit covering the left wing, but with a return to Champions League football and a desire to do better next season, he needs real competition for the position. Christos Tzolis, the left-wing answer That competition could come from Club Brugge’s Christos Tzolis. The deadly Greek winger has caught the eye of Premier League heavyweights, with United joined by Arsenal and Manchester City in a fierce battle for his services. And it is easy to understand why. An explosive and direct winger, Tzolis combines blistering pace and clever dribbling with a ruthless, dual-footed ability to cut inside and finish, making him a menace in front of goal. With 21 goals and 28 assists this season, top clubs will fancy him weaponising their attack. Tzolis responds to Premier League links Now, speaking on DAZN, Tzolis has for the first time directly addressed Premier League interest. Stijn Stijnen asked the winger: “What will it be, Christos? Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal.” A co-panellist then noted that all three names have appeared in the press. Tzolis responded: “I don’t know. It depends on Club Brugge. It’s not up to me to decide. “We’ll see what the best option is for me. It’s not just about the name. We also have to ask ourselves what the best project is. “Why not stay at Club Brugge? I have a contract until 2029. I’m a professional. I have to respect my team. The team that pays me. I’m here to celebrate. Then we’ll see about my future. It’s still early. Today, I have to celebrate. I have a vacation.” 🍾 | L’avenir peut attendre, Christos Tzolis a un titre à fêter d’abord. 🔮👀 #KVMCLU pic.twitter.com/gFxYbcpAcW — DAZN Belgique (@DAZN_BEFR) May 21, 2026 Tzolis’s admissions, in a way, breathe life into his exit links. They suggest that if you present him with the right project and convince Brugge to sell, you could win the transfer race. United may well have an advantage in this race, too In a separate interview with Het Nieuwsblad earlier this week, Tzolis hinted as much while ending hopes of Crystal Palace signing him: “In that case, I’d refuse,” he stated firmly when asked about Crystal Palace. “The Crystal Palace train has already left the station for me. “United could convince me. Such a massive club with so much history. It would be hard to say no to that.” The ball is now in INEOS’ court to work their magic and get the Tzolis deal over the line. Featured image Alex Bierens de Haan 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 Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.
“Such a big club”: Atalanta boss admits Ederson deal is close as he takes decisive action
Atalanta boss Raffaele Palladino has given a huge hint regarding Manchester United midfield target Ederson. Ederson interest As the summer transfer window approaches, United are expected to make midfield reinforcements their priority, with up to three new signings likely to come in. United are exploring moves for several targets, with Atalanta’s Ederson one of them. In recent days, links to the Brazil international have intensified, with United appearing to step up their plans. Ederson’s contract expires in 2027 and Atalanta are eager not to lose him on a free. This summer represents the best possible chance of attaining as much money as possible from parting ways with him. There have been suggestions that there is an agreement in place between United and Ederson’s camp over a five-year deal. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United and Atalanta are also close to striking a deal, although Fabrizio Romano refuted such claims. Ederson was an unused substitute during Atalanta’s 1-1 draw with Fiorentina on Friday evening, further fuelling speculation that a switch to Old Trafford is on the cards. Palladino addressed Ederson’s situation after the full-time whistle and explained why he did not play against La Viola. The 42-year-old coach confirmed that the player was left out because of the uncertainty surrounding his future. When explaining that talks are ongoing, he stopped just short of explicitly naming United. Ederson hint Palladino said, “Ederson out? It was a decision we agreed with the boy because there’s something going on in the transfer market.” “The fact that such a player is being followed by such a big club should be a source of pride.” Ederson has made 41 appearances across all competitions this season. He has contributed three goals and two assists in that period. United also seem to be stepping up their pursuit of West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes. The Hammers are close to relegation and the Red Devils want to beat the competition to the Portuguese midfielder. Michael Carrick and his players are next in action on Sunday when they go away to Brighton & Hove Albion in their final game of the 2025/26 season. Feature image Marco Luzzani 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… 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 hold new meetings to sign phenomenal 21-yo star, he’s likely to snub Arsenal for Red Devils – report
Bruno Fernandes will remain the focal point of Manchester United’s midfield, regardless of which new midfielders arrive this summer. Most recently, Fernandes was named the Premier League’s Player of the Season, underlining his impact at United this season. Now, the club’s hierarchy are working on bringing in a player seen as Bruno Fernandes 2.0. Manchester United ramp up Mateus Fernandes pursuit Early in April, The Peoples Person relayed a report suggesting that Bruno Fernandes wants West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes to be his successor at Old Trafford. Since then, United have explored the possibility of signing Fernandes from West Ham, whose negotiating position has weakened amid the real threat of relegation to the Championship. The technically gifted 21-year-old impressed in an advanced midfield role at Southampton before earning plaudits as an all-phase number eight at West Ham. This explains the growing interest in his services. According to The Sun, United have had more recent discussions with West Ham about the availability of Fernandes. It is claimed United’s interest in the Portuguese youngster has “ramped up in recent weeks”. “If West Ham are relegated, it will put pressure on the Hammers to recoup money through sales, with Fernandes a valuable asset,” the report adds. Manchester United ahead of Arsenal Furthermore, it is understood that Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have also been keeping an eye on Fernandes, who was nominated for Young Player of the 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 Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United would be the most likely destination for the West Ham star if he were to stay at a club in England. Still, PSG may still make things difficult for the Red Devils, who may need to act even more quickly to get the deal over the line for the £60 million-rated midfielder. 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!
Carrick sheds light on his blueprint for United’s academy, explains what he “genuinely” cares about
Manchester United have a rich history of promoting academy talents to the first team, but that tradition came under serious threat during former head coach Ruben Amorim’s tenure. The Portuguese’s treatment of academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo, who exploded onto the scene under former manager Erik ten Hag, also drew a lot of criticism. The Red Devils have had an academy graduate in their matchday squad for almost 89 years, a record unmatched anywhere in the world. The success of Sir Alex Ferguson’s tenure was built on the backbone of youth, with the academy regularly providing the first team with a rich supply of talent. The legendary Scot’s successors all invested in that ideology, with Mainoo emerging as a first-team regular under Ten Hag. However, Amorim showed very little faith in the Englishman, especially earlier this season when he was used exclusively as a substitute in the Premier League. Mainoo’s only start under the Portuguese this season came in the disastrous defeat to League Two minnows Grimsby Town in the EFL Cup second round. This situation raised concerns among fans and added to speculation over the 21 year old’s future, before INEOS decided to part ways with Amorim in January. United have returned to their roots under Carrick United handed the reins of the first team to Michael Carrick on a temporary basis in a bid to bring order and stability after a turbulent 14 months under Amorim. One of the English manager’s first actions was to abandon the 3-4-3 system that had no place for Mainoo and switch to a 4-2-3-1. The young English midfielder was also immediately reinstated in the team, and he rose like a phoenix from the ashes of the Amorim era. Mainoo was central to United’s third-placed finish in the Premier League, which played a part in Carrick getting the full-time job. Michael Carrick Managerial Career Stats TeamFromToGames PlayedGames WonGames DrawnGames LostWin % Manchester United (caretaker)21 November 20212 December 2021321066.7 Middlesbrough24 October 20224 June 202513663244946.3 Manchester United13 January 2026present16113268.8 Total15576285149.0 Source: Wikipedia. In many ways, it was a triumph for United’s academy and the hopes and dreams of the many youngsters striving to break into the senior side. With several academy talents close to taking the next step in their careers, the last few months have signalled the club’s return to its roots. Even during his time as caretaker manager, Carrick was regularly seen at academy games. After being officially handed the full-time job on Friday, the new United boss sat down with his former team-mate and club legend Wayne Rooney to discuss a range of topics, including the academy. Carrick has genuine interest in United’s academy Speaking on the Inside Carrington podcast, Rooney pointed out how Carrick’s presence at academy games is a big boost for the young players. He said: “I’ve seen a change in the academy. Obviously, before you even came in here, me and you have been standing there watching the games.” “It’s so nice, even when we were here and the gaffer then, so nice to see the first team staff there watching. That’s not only at Old Trafford, but obviously there are pictures here at the training ground, and you being there gives them such a [buzz].” Carrick responded by revealing that he is genuinely interested in how the youngsters are performing. He added: “I genuinely care about how the young players are doing. You need to try and give as many opportunities as you can. To create that feeling and connection through the club, is exactly what the club is built on and it’s been there long before us.” Carrick and Rooney also have a more personal link to United’s academy, as they sons are currently part of the Under-16 side. Final Thoughts United’s decision to tie Mainoo down to a new deal further reiterates their trust in youth, a tradition that has been a source of pride for their supporters for decades. With exciting talents like JJ Gabriel and Shea Lacey knocking on the door of the first-team squad, the future looks bright for the Red Devils. Featured image George Wood via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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’s pursuit of 26-yo wing wizard sparks panic at CL club, talks underway over £70m switch – reports
Manchester United’s pursuit of Maxi Araujo has forced a panicked response from Sporting CP as speculation around a big-money switch to Old Trafford grows, according to reports from Portugal. Reinforcing the left-hand side While a revamp in midfield is United’s main focus this summer, the club are also considering reinforcements on the left-hand side — whether at fullback or on the wing. Initially, it was believed a new left-winger would be targeted to provide a more natural option on that flank than either Matheus Cunha or Patrick Dorgu, who do their best work in other areas of the pitch. However, the improved form from both players under Michael Carrick has seen a new left-back rise in importance, as Dorgu’s deployment further forward leaves Luke Shaw as the only option in that position. Despite a torrid injury record, the 30-year-old Englishman has defied expectations to stay fit and play in every Premier League match this season. However, Champions League qualification will increase the workload next season, meaning an alternative is needed to avoid a relapse. United are understood to be interested in two of Shaw’s compatriots, Lewis Hall and Myles Lewis-Skelly, as options to be his long-term successor. Newcastle and Arsenal will fight tooth and nail to keep their respective youngsters, however. Sporting desperate to keep Araujo This has led to Araujo rising up the ranks as a target, with the 26-year-old left-back having enjoyed a superb season in the Portuguese capital. The Uruguay international, set to play a key role for his country at the World Cup alongside Manuel Ugarte, was outstanding in Sporting’s run to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. He was equally imperious domestically, returning five goals and four assists as the Lions finished second in Liga Portugal and he was voted into the league’s team of the season. United are understood to have held “exploratory talks” with Araujo’s representatives, though Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested, while Atlético Madrid are said to be frontrunners. Portuguese outlet O Jogo even states there are reports indicating the Red Devils have “made an offer” worth around £70 million — the same as Araujo’s release clause — but this is yet to be backed up by more reputable sources. Interestingly, Lisbon-based newspaper A Bola (as relayed by Sport Witness) claims Sporting have “started contacts” to persuade Araujo to remain at the José Alvalade Stadium for one more season. The Lions will then sanction his sale next summer, mirroring the tactic they used to keep Viktor Gyokeres and Morten Hjulmand previously. Qualification for the Champions League after a second-placed finish has also strengthened their negotiating position, with Araujo now “more open to staying.” Final Thoughts United’s interest in Araujo makes sense as he offers an aggressive, front-foot fullback who likes to bomb forward, helping balance Cunha’s preference to cut inside from the left wing. However, if Sporting remain resolute in needing his release clause to be triggered to sanction an exit, the Red Devils will waste little time in shopping elsewhere this summer. Featured image Carlos Rodrigues 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 Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.
Official: Bruno Fernandes crowned Premier League Player of the Year after stunning season
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been named the Premier League Player of the Season after an outstanding 2025/26 campaign. Brilliant season Fernandes has been a key player for United again this season, leading the charge in the club’s qualification for the Champions League and a third-place finish. The midfielder has netted eight goals and contributed a further 20 assists, equalling the Premier League record that was jointly held by legendary duo Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. With United set to make their way to Brighton & Hove Albion for their final game of 2025/26 on Sunday, there is every chance that Fernandes could eclipse the pair and become the top flight’s undisputed assist king. The Portugal international won United’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards. He was also chosen as the Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers’ Association. Now, it has been confirmed that Fernandes is the Premier League Player of the Season award winner. Awards continue to mount up Fernandes has successfully warded off stiff competition from Gabriel (Arsenal), David Raya (Arsenal), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Erling Haaland (Manchester City), Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City), Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest) and Igor Thiago (Brentford) to bag the prestigious accolade. The 31-year-old becomes the seventh player to win the award while representing United. The other six are Peter Schmeichel, Dwight Yorke, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nemanja Vidic and Wayne Rooney. A season for the history books 📖@manutd’s Bruno Fernandes is @EASPORTSFC Player of the Season ❤️ pic.twitter.com/nj0wKjlpFv — Premier League (@premierleague) May 23, 2026 The prize has been running since 1994/95. Ronaldo and Vidic share the record for most wins, with both having claimed the award on two occasions. Vidic was the last United player to receive it. This season marks the first time a player from outside the Premier League’s winning squad has received the award since De Bruyne claimed it for 2019/20, the campaign in which he registered 20 assists. Fernandes will now have an eye on the PFA Player of the Year before linking up with Portugal ahead of this summer’s World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada. Featured image Jan Kruger 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!
Yan Diomande: first blood drawn as United face up against Liverpool for African sensation – David Ornstein
Manchester United are falling behind Liverpool in the race to sign RB Leipzig sensation Yan Diomande, as the club’s priorities lie elsewhere this summer, according to two transfer experts. Fixing the Engine Room The Red Devils are prioritising a major rebuild in midfield, with Casemiro’s contract set to expire and Manuel Ugarte’s head on the chopping block. At least two signings will arrive, while a third will be added if a buyer can be found for the 25-year-old Uruguay international. United’s budget is expected to be considerable after Michael Carrick’s men secured Champions League qualification. A host of players out on loan will be sold as well — Rasmus Hojlund has already joined Napoli permanently for £38 million — to further bolster the war chest. One well-placed source states it is a “near certainty” the total spend will surpass last summer’s £240m outlay. However, the midfield market is an expensive one. The primary targets — Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson or Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni — will cost up to £100m, while the alternatives elsewhere in the Premier League, such as West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, will not be cheap either. A deal is understood to be advancing for Atalanta dynamo Ederson, though reports from Italy of a £46m agreement are said to be “premature”. The Brazil international has “verbally agreed” to a five-year contract, however, with United executives in Bergamo to continue negotiations. The focus on fixing the team’s stalling engine room will leave little room for big-money investment elsewhere on the pitch. A new left-winger — an “Amad on the left” as one source describes — is on the agenda, with Diomande and Aston Villa and England star Morgan Rogers the two leading candidates. But Leipzig are demanding €100m (£87m) for their 19-year-old winger, who has enjoyed a breakout season in the Bundesliga with 12 goals and seven assists in 33 games, demonstrating a devastating combination of speed and skill. And Fabrizio Romano reveals United have “informed” Diomande’s camp that they are unwilling to meet the asking price as their “main investments will be made in midfield.” INEOS are said to “really like” the Ivory Coast international, who played alongside Amad at the Africa Cup of Nations, but consider him “too expensive”. Liverpool Surge Ahead United’s reluctance to pursue a deal has allowed Liverpool to storm ahead in the race to secure Diomande’s signature, with David Ornstein confirming he is a “leading target” for the Merseyside club as they prepare to replace the departing Mohamed Salah. “Diomande is among Europe’s most coveted talents and the Anfield side are serious contenders for his signature, although they are sure to face stiff competition if the 19-year-old exits Leipzig,” the Athletic reporter reveals. “Liverpool have manoeuvred into a strong position with the player and if a deal looks plausible on that front, talks between the clubs can be expected to follow.” Final Thoughts Virtually every member of Europe’s elite, including Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, are keeping tabs on Diomande — a reflection of his outstanding talent, with the Red Bull group considering him their best prospect since Erling Haaland arrived at RB Salzburg. And while there is a strong chance the Abidjan native remains with Leipzig next season, it appears increasingly certain Anfield will be his destination should he leave Germany, much to the frustration of his admirers at Old Trafford. Feature image Boris Streubel 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 Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.
