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.
Yan Diomande: first blood drawn as United face up against Liverpool for African sensation – David Ornstein
United flop with just one start under Carrick named club’s most underrated player by teammate – Sky Sports
Michael Carrick has transformed Manchester United into one of the Premier League’s most potent attacking sides. Only Manchester City have scored more goals (31) than United (30) since Carrick took charge in January. During this period, several United stars, including Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha, have received plaudits for their attacking contributions. Bryan Mbeumo lauds Joshua Zirkzee Fans could be forgiven for not considering Joshua Zirkzee when praising Manchester United’s attackers, given how limited his impact has been at Old Trafford. Zirkzee has made nine appearances under Carrick, but has only one start to his name. The Dutchman failed to register a goal or an assist during that time. The former Bologna talisman, who impressed United scouts with his technical ability, has looked a shadow of his former self in England. Regardless, he is still highly rated by his teammates. During an interview with Sky Sports, Bryan Mbeumo was asked who he thinks is the most underrated player in the United squad. Mbeumo stated: “Josh [Zirkzee]. Because of the way he links with the players. He’s such a strong guy, and has a good finishing [ability]. He’s good with his feet. I was impressed.” The Cameroonian also admitted that Zirkzee is an important character in the dressing room. AS Roma ready to sign Joshua Zirkzee Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Zirkzee is expected to leave United in the coming weeks. It is understood AS Roma will try to sign the Netherlands international, with Gian Piero Gasperini reportedly keen on bringing the forward back to Serie A. The Italian tactician wanted Zirkzee in the winter transfer window as well. Given how infrequently Zirkzee has featured under Carrick, who will spearhead United’s rebuild, the club is unlikely to prevent the underperforming striker from leaving. Reports have suggested the Red Devils want to bring in another goalscorer to challenge Benjamin Sesko. Featured image Matt McNulty 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 hit jackpot in hunt for 6’2″ attacker as no one is going to stand in way of £80m transfer – Ben Jacobs
Manchester United have effectively been handed the green light to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. If reports from Italy are to be believed, much of the focus of the club’s recruitment team has been on strengthening the midfield this week. It has been claimed that United are closing in on securing the services of Atalanta’s Ederson. However, things could also progress quickly in the case of Rogers. Path cleared for Morgan Rogers Morgan Rogers is nearing the end of his time at Aston Villa, having played a crucial part in the club’s Europa League triumph and their return to the Champions League. Rogers’ ferocious ball-striking and ball-carrying have not only made him a hero in Birmingham but have also secured his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup ahead of big names like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden. Now, his camp has set their sights on a blockbuster move. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, those close to Rogers understand that “no one is going to stand in his way” for a summer move, with Villa prepared to sell their superstar attacker. It is added that the price will be around £80 million for the prolific 23-year-old forward, who is admired at United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain. All the mentioned clubs are “in the race” to get the signature of 6ft 2in star. Manchester United figures keen on Morgan Rogers United would hope that Michael Carrick’s permanent appointment strengthens their case, as Rogers played under him at Middlesbrough. Morgan Rogers Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed Cards Premier League371077- Europa League15352- FA Cup21— EFL Cup1—- Total 25/265514129- Capable of playing as a winger or attacking midfielder, the Englishman’s best work comes in the left half-space. That may not be ideal for Matheus Cunha, who likes to operate in the same zone. Still, Carrick and Jason Wilcox, the club’s director of football, are reportedly pushing to sign Rogers from Villa. Featured image Dan Mullan 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!
The Athletic hands prestigious recognition to United ace after stunning debut campaign
Manchester United’s decision to invest in Senne Lammens raised a lot of eyebrows last summer. However, with one game left in the season, it now looks like a masterstroke from INEOS. The Red Devils have been home to some outstanding goalkeepers in the past, but the position was under intense scrutiny in recent seasons. The Premier League giants were looking for a long-term replacement for the outgoing David de Gea in the summer of 2023 when they decided to invest in Andre Onana. It appeared a smart move at the time, given that the Cameroonian had just featured in the Champions League final with Inter Milan. However, Onana succumbed to the pressures of Old Trafford, with his error-prone performances ensuring that the position was never far from the headlines. Former head coach Ruben Amorim identified the position as a weakness in the team last summer and reportedly wanted Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez as Onana’s replacement. The Argentine had enjoyed tremendous success with his nation, winning the World Cup, among other honours. However, United sprang a surprise by going with the instincts of chief goalkeeper scout Tony Coton and signed the relatively unknown Lammens instead. Nine months later, the Belgian has earned a place in the hearts of every Red Devils fan. Just what United needed Coton has since revealed the intricate process of selecting Lammens, who was hardly a panic buy. Instead, the move represents a patient, calculated selection procedure for which the recruitment team deserves a pat on the back. It is a testament to the Belgian’s abilities that United’s goalkeeping department is hardly making headlines now except for the right reasons. Baby Courtois marked his debut for the Red Devils with a clean sheet in the 2-0 win over Sunderland last October. Lammens has since registered six more clean sheets in 32 appearances for the English giants and is now a guaranteed starter under Michael Carrick. Senne Lammens Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoals ConcededClean SheetsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League31397–2,790′ Jupiler Pro League44—360′ FA Cup12—90′ Total36457–3,240′ Source: Transfermarkt. Lammens’ assured presence at the back has been one of the key ingredients in United’s rise under Carrick. The 23 year old has been a revelation at set-pieces, which were the Red Devils’ bane during Onana’s time. The Belgian has also made a string of impressive saves since arriving at the Theatre of Dreams, and his efforts have now earned recognition. The Athletic’s Signing of the Season The Athletic recently announced their end-of-season football awards, as decided by their team of experts, and named Lammens as the Premier League Signing of the Season. The report points out that the move for the Belgian already looks like a bargain, stating: “Coton, a former goalkeeper for United and Manchester City, had watched Lammens several times in his only full campaign of senior football for Antwerp, in Belgium’s top flight, and pressed director of football Jason Wilcox to make the move.” “Backed by director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, United took the plunge on the 23-year-old for a fee of €21million plus €4m in add-ons. That now looks to be a bargain, with Lammens exuding a calmness in goal that has been absent for the last few seasons for United.” “Away from the pitch, he comes in on his days off, stays late at Carrington, often talking to Coton, and reads books on other sports to increase his knowledge. He is making saves of real consequence and appears to have solved a problem for the team for years to come.” Bruno Fernandes, who has already won the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award, was also recognised as The Athletic’s Player of the Season. Final Thoughts Lammens has brought a solidity at the back that United have craved in recent years and, in the process, has already endeared himself to fans. The Belgian is still relatively young in goalkeeping terms, so one can expect him to become even better as he gains more top-flight experience. Senne Lammens prevented 2.05 goals vs. Sunderland, making 4 saves from shots taken inside the box. Man Utd’s best player. 🛑 pic.twitter.com/onUUD2pu6a — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) May 9, 2026 Featured image Stu Forster 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 to avoid signing “top-tier” midfield monster unless one key condition is met – opinion
Manchester United are searching for new midfielders this summer. With the departure of Casemiro, they have been linked to a plethora of options such as Ederson, Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes and Carlos Baleba, to name just a few. There have also been links to cheaper, less experienced options, as United may need to fill three midfield roles if Manuel Ugarte leaves, as he is expected to. One player United have been linked to is Shea Charles at Southampton. Shea Charles – who is he? The 22-year-old shot to prominence this year when his goal knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup last month. He also scored the winning goal for Southampton in the playoff semi-final before they were thrown out for spying on their opponents, Middlesbrough. Charles has been on the international stage for quite some time, making his debut for Northern Ireland back in 2022. He has played 33 games for his country. Why should United sign him? Key skills Charles is a dynamic, modern midfielder who can do a lot of things well in the centre of the park. He came through Manchester City’s academy, so is technically sound and will be well known to United’s sporting director, Jason Wilcox. Charles has been described as “a top-tier midfield prospect in world football. He’s physically and technically excellent, highly impactful in every phase of play.” He can be dominant in the middle of the park on his day with his big frame but ability to get around the pitch with ease. Charles also does not shy away from duels as “he is a really effective tackler, reading the game extremely well and having the physical attributes to manipulate opponents in contact.” The Northern Irishman is also good in the air, which can make a difference in helping his side defend set pieces or long balls. Interestingly, he has also started adding goals to his game. Whilst he has just got the one strike for his country, he has begun to find the net more regularly for his club side, Southampton. Usefully for United, he is also a keen ball carrier and his first thoughts tend to be to move the ball forward, not play sideways passes, which is another thing United require in their midfield. Versatility Charles has already shown his versatility for Northern Ireland, playing in different midfield roles and also at centre-back when needed. Whilst it is unlikely that Charles would be needed to play as many roles in a squad as strong as United’s, his ability to adapt is useful in a long season and also demonstrates tactical astuteness. Moreover, his mentality from a young age has always been praised, and this goes a long way to explain his maturity to handle playing in different areas of the pitch on the international stage. Leadership Charles has also shown leadership at such a young age. In November 2024, he made history to become Northern Ireland’s youngest ever captain at just 21 years old when he wore the armband against Belarus in the Nations League. His national manager Michael O’Neill has also praised his consistency and leadership that he has shown for his country since his teenage years. Loan necessary There is just one hiccup, though. Charles is not quite ready to be thrown into the firepit of Old Trafford. He could be a very special player and he has all the tools to reach the highest level. Nonetheless, he needs to find time to develop his game in the Championship. He is just about gaining regular action for Southampton and would hope to play more next season. Perhaps United could sign the player and loan him back to Southampton in the Championship or to a lower Premier League side where he is more likely to find game time. Charles would be an interesting, attractive, low-cost signing for United to make, but only on the condition he can be loaned out to get more senior minutes under his belt to pave the way for a successful Old Trafford career. Shea Charles 25/26 season stats Games playedGoalsAssistsMins played 38622469 Source: transfermarkt.com Feature image Leila Coker 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Official: United Women name impressive squad in their quest to make history in World Sevens
Manchester United Women have brought the curtain down on a historic season. They reached the League Cup final for the first time and also progressed to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Disappointingly, however, they failed to win a trophy and also could not secure Champions League football for next season, as they finished the Women’s Super League season in fourth place. World Sevens United took part in the inaugural World Sevens tournament last season in Portugal and finished as runners-up to Bayern Munich. Simi Awujo was particularly impressive, winning the breakout star award. Squad announcement The tournament will take place next week, between 28th and 30th May, at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium. United have named an impressive squad to take part, as Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Safia Middleton-Patel and Kayla Rendell are the travelling goalkeepers. Anna Sandberg, Gabby George, Maya Le Tissier, Hanna Lundkvist, Jayde Riviere, Millie Turner and youngster Jess Simpson have all received a call-up. The midfield will consist of Ella Toone, Jess Park, Simi Awujo, Lisa Naalsund, Julia Zigiotti and Emma Watson, who has returned from Mexico. There is also strength in depth in the forward line, with Melvine Malard, Elisabeth Terland, Ellen Wangerheim and Lea Schuller. Fridolina Rolfo is probably the biggest name absentee from the squad. Introducing our travelling squad for the @WorldSevens_ 📋🫡 Tickets available now 📲 https://t.co/A8CxE27GGW pic.twitter.com/al5O6nTCTz — Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) May 22, 2026 Fixtures The Red Devils will kick off events in Group 2 against West Ham at 17:00 BST on Thursday, 28th May. They will then play two games on Friday, 29th May: Aston Villa at 15:00 BST and then Tottenham Hotspur at 20:00 BST. The semi-final stage will be played on Saturday, 30th May, in the morning at either 11:00 or 12:00 BST. Were United to make it to the final, as they did last year, the game would kick off at 14:30 BST on that same Saturday. Our @WorldSevens_ schedule is set! 🗓️💪 Get your tickets 📲 https://t.co/BEGliuDOXc pic.twitter.com/fLW63qBpPf — Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) May 22, 2026 Featured image Matt McNulty 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Video: 3 saves, 100% high claims, 100% aerial duels: United loanee tastes glory as side win cup final
Manchester United loanee Andre Onana joined Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund and Jadon Sancho in winning a trophy at their loan clubs. To find out where all of United’s loanees are in action this season, click here. Andre Onana Onana started in goal for Trabzonspor in the Turkish Cup final against Konyaspor. The Cameroonian had little to do in the first half as his side took the lead. Early in the second half, he pushed the ball onto the post, but the rebound eventually fell to Jackson Muleka, who twisted and fired an effort into the bottom corner, leaving Onana stranded. Onana also faced a penalty, but luckily for his side, the Konyaspor effort crashed off the crossbar. The United keeper then made a smart point-blank stop from the rebound to keep his team level. As the minutes ticked into the last ten, Onana also pulled off an important stop from a long-distance effort. Onana and his side had a massive escape in the last seconds when a header from a free kick clipped the outside of the post after the keeper was left rooted to his spot. The victory was Trabzonspor’s 10th cup victory and their first since 2020. Statistics Onana made three saves, with two coming from inside the box. The keeper also made two high claims to alleviate the pressure from his defence. He also won 100% of his aerial duels, but had a low passing accuracy of 40% as all of his passes were long passes in the final. Future Onana is unlikely to return to Old Trafford in any permanent sense this summer, as the club is delighted with the impact Senne Lammens has had. Trabzonspor’s president has already stated that the club would love to loan Onana again, but it is unclear whether United would entertain that type of deal or demand a sale. 2026 Ziraat Türkiye Kupası Şampiyonu @Trabzonspor ’u tebrik ederiz. 🏆♥️💙 pic.twitter.com/Gl1uLZzQsm — Sarıyer İçecek (@sariyericecek) May 22, 2026 Andre Onana stats vs Konyaspor StatValue Penalties faced (saved)1 (0) Total saves3 Saves from inside box2 Punches0 High claims2 Key passes0 Crosses (accurate)0 (0) Accurate passes8/20 (40%) Passes in opposition half (acc.)8/19 (42%) Long balls (accurate)8/20 (40%) Touches27 Dribbles (successful)0 (0) Possession lost12 Total carrying distance10 m Carries2 Total progression7.9 m Def. contributions0 Tackles (won)0 (0) Interceptions0 Clearances0 Blocked shots0 Recoveries4 Ground duels (won)0 (0) Aerial duels (won)1 (1) Dribbled past0 Total shots0 Shots on target0 Shots blocked0 Featured image Ahmad Moura 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Fierce PL rivals open to selling “special” wonderkid, United ready to take full advantage – report
Left-back is a position that has long been neglected by Manchester United and it seems they are keen to change that this summer. Luke Shaw has been at the club for over 12 years now, but unfortunately, injuries have derailed what promised to be a fantastic career. The Englishman has started all Premier League games this season, but the truth is that he cannot be trusted to remain injury-free again next season. The Red Devils have signed Alex Telles and Tyrell Malacia in the past, but both were backups to the England international and not necessarily his direct replacement. Hunt on for Luke Shaw’s successor Recent reports have suggested that INEOS are looking at Newcastle’s Lewis Hall to succeed Luke Shaw, but he is not the only name on the list. Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly is another name on United’s radar, with the 19-year-old keen for more game time after having started a mere four times in the English top flight this term. Mikel Arteta did turn to the England U21 international in recent weeks, which seemed to suggest he would be staying at the Emirates. But Sky Sports reporter Danyal Khan has a different take on the subject. He revealed that the Gunners are planning to spend big this summer as they look to retain their Premier League crown. Myles Lewis-Skelly could be on the move They will need to balance it with player sales, and who better than an academy graduate, whose sale counts as pure profit. “We reported a few months ago that he’s on United’s list for left-backs. The attraction is that he can play multiple positions as well as deputise for and eventually take over from Luke Shaw when his contract runs out. “United definitely have him on the left-back shortlist, Lewis Hall as well. “With Lewis-Skelly, it’s an interesting one because Arsenal might need to sell one or two players this summer to properly invest again after winning the Premier League.” A move for Myles Lewis-Skelly makes a lot of sense Myles Lewis-Skelly can also double up as a defensive midfielder, another position the 20-time English league champions are keen to strengthen. The “special” star has a market value of £30 million (via Transfermarkt), but he is expected to fetch close to £50 million, given his undeniable qualities. Whether INEOS can afford such a move remains to be seen. United have a mostly terrific record of signing players from the North London side, and the co-owners must give it their all should the Arsenal academy graduate actually end up on the market once the summer window opens. Feature image Clive Mason 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
Video: “United have been on a mission”: Fabrizio Romano spills the beans on INEOS’ pursuit of midfield marauder
Media reports have been swirling since the morning suggesting Manchester United are close to completing their first midfield signing of the transfer window. The Red Devils have reportedly agreed a five-year deal for Atalanta’s Ederson for a relatively low fee with personal terms not expected to be a problem. There is a mixed feeling within the United fanbase regarding the persistent rumours, with some happy with INEOS’ proactiveness, while others are disappointed with the calibre of the signing. It was expected that the co-owners would try to replicate their highly successful policy of signing Premier League-proven players from last summer. Ederson talks premature Pages: 1 2 Latest Top Stories… 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
United in pole position to land “fantastic” club captain on a cut-price deal ahead of fierce rivals – report
With Manchester United expected to challenge on all four fronts next season, the club will need as many as three midfielders to compensate for the departures of three of their current stars. It is well established that Casemiro is set to join Inter Miami after his contract with United comes to a close in the summer. INEOS are also keen to offload Manuel Ugarte after his disappointing two-year stint in Manchester, along with academy graduate Toby Collyer. The plan is to spend big on an elite replacement for the Brazilian, bring in a backup option to replace the Uruguayan, and add a low-cost signing for squad depth. Morten Hjulmand back on the menu As things stand, the Red Devils seem to be focusing their efforts on landing a backup option, with the club close to agreeing a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson. Their primary option was Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, but with the Englishman reportedly heading to Manchester City, the 20-time English league champions might be forced to look elsewhere. Sandro Tonali and Carlos Baleba are among the Premier League options being monitored, with INEOS also keeping an eye on players outside England. Morten Hjulmand of Sporting CP has long been a target for the club, but his asking price has always proved prohibitive. Major discount on the cards Not anymore, as per Correio da Manhã, with the Portuguese outlet reporting that Sporting president has slashed the Dane’s price by half in order to avoid friction within the squad. Naturally, this development has attracted the attention of numerous bigwigs, including Arsenal, Manchester City, and Atletico Madrid. The report further adds that Sunday is expected to be the 26-year-old’s final game in Sporting colours. “Morten Hjulmand wants to say goodbye to Sporting by winning the Portuguese Cup on Sunday against Torreense in the Jamor final. Suitors lining up for Morten Hjulmand “The Danish midfielder has been attracting interest from clubs in Spain and England. The Spanish club Atlético Madrid, who had already tried to sign him in January, are preparing to make another attempt, but will face competition from English clubs Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal. “Sporting’s strong Champions League campaign has whetted the appetite of European giants to sign the team’s captain. “Furthermore, Frederico Varandas is willing to sell the 26-year-old player for around €40 million, half of his release clause (€80 million).” Given the “fantastic” Sporting captain’s skillset, he would make an astute purchase, especially for the price being quoted. Sporting sure to sell It is certain that the Denmark international will leave, as Sporting are on the hunt for a replacement, with current Tottenham Hotspur loanee Palhinha earmarked as his successor. Whether United will seriously push to sign Morten Hjulmand will depend on the availability of Tonali, Baleba, or even Aurélien Tchouaméni. All eyes will be on how INEOS operate once the window opens. 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
