RB Leipzig defender David Raum has fuelled speculation over his future even further in his latest comments, even as he continues to be linked with a summer transfer to Manchester United. Raum interest United are bracing for a busy summer transfer window as they prepare to play in the Champions League next season and potentially mount a title charge. While bolstering the midfield is believed to be the priority, other positions could also come into play, including left-back. After last weekend’s 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest, United confirmed that Tyrell Malacia will be leaving at the end of the season when his contract expires. The Dutchman’s exit will leave Luke Shaw as the only senior and established left-back in the club’s ranks. Shaw has done well to be fit and available for every Premier League game this season, but his injury record suggests that United cannot afford to solely rely on him. United have been linked to a handful of left-backs including Lewis Hall (Newcastle), Antonee Robinson (Fulham) and of course, Raum. Boasting remarkable attacking prowess alongside his experience as a full-back, Raum is in the midst of another standout campaign in the Bundesliga. He has made 30 top-flight appearances this term, contributing three goals and seven assists in that period. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are admirers of Raum and have been keeping close tabs on him. His contract expires next season, which makes him all the more attainable as Leipzig would not want to lose him for free in a year’s time. Liverpool have also been credited with an interest in the 28-year-old. In an interview with BILD, he refused to commit his future to Leipzig, likely keeping his options open as the window draws nearer. Raum’s statement The Germany international said, “The club is in contact with my agency.” “My focus, however, was on qualifying for the Champions League, and now it’s the World Cup, for which I’m currently preparing for intensively. My priority right now is to play a fantastic tournament.” “Afterwards, we’ll still have plenty of time to sit down together.” Pressed further, he added, “I still hear about interest from other clubs from time to time, and I still make no secret of the fact that I still have dreams as a player, but I’ve received a great deal of appreciation here in Leipzig, especially this season.” “And now I’m captain of a Champions League club, so that’s my absolute focus right now.” Meanwhile, United are next in action on Sunday when they go away to Brighton & Hove Albion in their final game of the 2025/26 campaign. Featured image Maja Hitij 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!
“I still have dreams as a player”: Rampaging defender sparks United frenzy with stunning transfer hint
Bruno Fernandes issues clear response to Roy Keane after scathing “circus act” accusation
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has responded to Roy Keane’s scathing accusation that he was far more concerned with the assist record than winning Sunday’s game against Nottingham Forest. Furious tirade Fernandes’ assist for Bryan Mbeumo during the 3-2 victory over Forest saw him reach 20 assists for the season. In doing so, he equalled Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry’s all-time Premier League assist record. With one game left to play, there is every chance that Fernandes could surpass the duo and stand on his own as the top flight’s undisputed assist king. Had it not been for the profligacy of certain teammates in front of goal, however, Fernandes might have already broken the record. The Portugal international fashioned clear-cut opportunities for the likes of Mbeumo and Joshua Zirkzee, most of which went begging. But his efforts were not appreciated by everyone, most notably Keane. The Irishman launched an angry rant, accusing Fernandes of thinking more about the assist record than winning the game. The ex-United branded the whole thing a “circus act.” Keane said that he was “raging” at what he was watching, while also questioning Fernandes’ commitment to the team in comparison to his desire for personal accolades. Fernandes has now rubbished such suggestions in a clear response to the bitter 54-year-old. Fernandes’ response Speaking to Sky Sports after collecting his Footballer of the Year prize at the Football Writers’ Awards ceremony, Fernandes remarked, “It is not something that I will ever chase.” “I know people can have different opinions about me, but they cannot say that I am not someone that looks to [help] the team and tries to make the team the most successful one.” “I will always try to win trophies and not individual accolades.” Fernandes also opened up on Michael Carrick’s impact since his arrival at the start of the year. According to Fernandes, a change was needed, although he refused to clearly explain why. “When the change was made we were not far from what we wanted [to achieve] this season. That was the top four. At the same time, it was in need of change by the club for different reasons – I won’t be naming them now.” He continued, “Michael came in with a big personality but also with a lot of calmness about what he needed to do to bring the best out of the team and he did it in the best way.” “For myself it was a great end of the season. I got to really enjoy the football I was playing and most importantly, the team was getting results.” “Me and the boss spoke before, and we said we can play better, we want to play better. We didn’t achieve the level we want to have but since he came the results show we were one of the best teams in the Premier League.” 13 of Fernandes’ 20 assists have come under Carrick. Featured image by Molly Darlington/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!
Mourinho turns supervillain with devious plan to derail United’s £43m pursuit of midfield monster – report
Jose Mourinho is about to block one of Manchester United’s most anticipated midfield transfers this summer. With plans to remake their engine room, The 20-time English champions have set their sights on some of the finest midfielders in Europe. One of them is Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand. The Danish midfielder is establishing himself as the number six that top clubs crave in their desire to establish control and dominance in the centre of the park. Highly intelligent, physical, and tactically disciplined, Hjulmand anchors the midfield by combining elite ball-winning, excellent positional awareness, and precise passing to dictate the tempo of the game, which is exactly what Manchester United crave in a Casemiro heir. INEOS know that, which is why behind-the-scenes reports suggest they are pushing to sign him. However, as they look to bring him to Manchester, complications are emerging. Competition for Morten Hjulmand Clubs are keen on derailing United’s transfer plans. First, it was Arsenal; now, a report from Spain suggests Real Madrid have entered the Hjulmand race. Mourinho request Apparently, Jose Mourinho wants the Sporting CP captain as his first signing back at the Bernabeu. As per Cope, “Miguel Ángel Díaz says that José Mourinho has asked Real Madrid to sign Morten Hjulmand, the Danish midfielder from Sporting Lisbon, for whom the Portuguese club would demand around €50 million.” Real Madrid complicate move Madrid forcing themselves into the Hjulmand transfer race changes everything. The Los Blancos will naturally do whatever it takes to please their new manager, and that desperation to win this deal, combined with the club’s undeniable appeal, massively hurts the Red Devils’ chances of landing Hjulmand. Hopefully, Michael Carrick can sell the United project to the midfielder, who may then be tempted to join a club where he would play under someone who was once one of the best in his position. Featured image Francesco Pecoraro 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.
United surge into pole position for £80m midfield sensation according to “well-placed sources” – report
Manchester United are set to finish in the top three for the first time since the 2022/23 campaign, when they also finished third. The Red Devils have cemented their position in third place in the league after 37 games this season, capping off a fine run under caretaker manager Michael Carrick. The Englishman took over from former head coach Ruben Amorim in January and has registered 11 wins and three draws in 16 games. United have already secured a place in next season’s Champions League and Carrick is expected to be retained permanently as a reward for his efforts. With the season almost over, the Premier League giants are already working on their summer plans, with INEOS keen to utilise the upcoming transfer window to the fullest. One of United’s priorities is a new midfielder to fill Casemiro’s boots, asthe veteran midfielder is set to leave as a free agent at the end of the season. The Red Devils are now looking for Kobbie Mainoo’s ideal partner and recent reports have named West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes as an option. Fernandes’ future uncertain Fernandes has been indispensable for the Hammers this season, registering five goals and three assists in 38 appearances across all competitions, all but one of which have been starts. Mateus Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League3534336-2,936′ Championship32-1–189′ FA Cup221—225′ EFL Cup111-1-71′ Total4139547-3,421′ Source: Transfermarkt. However, West Ham United remain 18th in the Premier League table with one game left to play and are in danger of being relegated to the Championship. The situation has added to speculation regarding the future of many first-team stars, as the London giants may have to turn to player sales to address their finances if they fail to avoid the drop. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that West Ham United are resigned to losing Fernandes this summer. Another report has suggested that the Red Devils have already held talks with the Hammers to understand the possibility of a move this summer. An update on the situation has emerged that will delight United fans. United leading Fernandes race According to TEAMtalk, United are now leading the race to sign Fernandes this summer. The report states: “Manchester United have made fresh checks on West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes and are now firmly leading the pursuit of the talented Portuguese youngster, well-placed TEAMtalk sources confirm.” “As we have long reported, Man Utd are understood to be extremely keen on securing his signature. Fresh enquiries have been made in recent days, and the midfielder is favoured by many within the Old Trafford hierarchy.” The report states that United are aware of the Portuguese’s willingness to make the move, adding: “Sources indicate that Man Utd fully understand Fernandes would be very keen on the move to Old Trafford, viewing it as a major step up in his career.” “Portugal youth international Fernandes is said to be particularly attracted by the prospect of playing Champions League football and representing one of England’s most storied clubs.” The report confirms that the West Ham man’s admiration for United skipper Bruno Fernandes could work in the club’s favour, stating: “He is believed to idolise Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes, raising the exciting possibility of the pair linking up in midfield in the future. They also have a strong relationship off the pitch.” The report points out that West Ham want at least £80 million for their prized asset, but adds that a move could materialise for far less if they are relegated. Final Thoughts There is a belief that Fernandes has a very high ceiling and could turn out to be even better than Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, who is also on United’s wish list. The Red Devils, as such, cannot afford to miss out on the Portuguese, especially if he is available in a cut-price deal. Featured image Julian Finney 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.
Rashford responds to Real Madrid’s bombshell plan as United hopes of agreeing an exit soar – report
Marcus Rashford has delivered an emphatic response to Real Madrid’s potential hijack attempt for the Manchester United forward this summer, according to a new report. Bombshell Raid Earlier this week, it emerged that Jose Mourinho – set to take charge at the Santiago Bernabeu – is interested in reuniting with the 28-year-old forward in the Spanish capital. The pair are understood to maintain a “good relationship” after their shared time at Old Trafford, where Rashford was one of the Portuguese coach’s most trusted players. The ‘Special One’ is drawn to a reunion for two main reasons: firstly, he would add a versatile forward he knows well to his new squad; and secondly, for the “disruption” it would cause Real’s fiercest rivals in Catalonia. Rashford is fresh from helping FC Barcelona retain their LaLiga title, having arrived at Camp Nou on a season-long loan from United last summer. He has enjoyed an impressive campaign for his adopted side, returning 14 goals and 14 assists in all competitions, and winning the faith of Hansi Flick. However, despite the German coach actively pushing his bosses to exercise the £26 million buy-option in the loan, the Blaugrana remain unconvinced about paying up. Instead, they are trying to renegotiate the deal, either by lowering the fee or agreeing to another loan. United have steadfastly refused to entertain either option, reaffirming that the current deal is the only one they will accept. With the Carrington graduate set to return to M16 on June 15, uncertainty is growing over whether a compromise will be struck between the two clubs before then – which has sparked Real’s interest, as well as Arsenal and Bayern Munich. Rashford rules out alternatives Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reveals that well-placed sources indicate Rashford has “no intention of leaving the Camp Nou” for another club. He is described as “one hundred percent” focused on Barca and has communicated this to his representatives, with no prospect of a blockbuster switch to Real. An offer has even been tabled by Aston Villa, the Premier League club where he spent the second half of last season on loan, but it holds no interest for the England international. Interestingly, Flick is understood to have communicated his desire for Rashford to remain part of his squad next season, telling the forward he is “counting” on it. This suggests a breakthrough between Barcelona and United may now be closer than previously thought, particularly as Robert Lewandowski’s confirmed departure will free up finances. Final Thoughts As the Red Devils brace for one of their most important transfer windows in recent memory, every penny will count at the Theatre of Dreams this summer. At least two new big-money midfielders are needed, while reinforcements on the left-hand side, up front, and in goal are also under consideration. Rashford’s status as an academy player means his sale, even for a relatively modest fee like £26m, would count as ‘pure profit’ on the books and significantly bolster the club’s war chest. If a deal can be struck with Barcelona before the World Cup kicks off in June, it will prove a massive boost to open the window with. Featured image Alex Caparros 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.
21-yo speed merchant on United’s crosshairs has already decided his next move – report
Manchester United’s pursuit of Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall may have just taken a complicated turn. The Red Devils remain linked with several potential successors to Luke Shaw, whose contract expires at the end of next season. The Englishman has been in rejuvenated form this season and has started all 37 Premier League games to date, a feat he has never managed in his career. However, Shaw will turn 31 in July and has a very poor injury record, so it is unclear whether he can maintain his recent momentum next season. The Premier League giants have Patrick Dorgu in their squad, who played mostly as a left-sided wing-back under former head coach Ruben Amorim. However, the Dane has been deployed higher up the pitch with good effect by caretaker manager Michael Carrick and could be in line for a positional switch next season. The situation could tempt United to consider replacements, and a previous report relayed by The Peoples Person suggested that Hall has emerged as an option. A fine choice for United Hall played as a midfielder during his formative years at Chelsea before switching to a full-back role, which perhaps explains his impressive abilities on the ball and his composure in possession. The 21 year old is press-resistant and operates mostly as an attacking left-back. Hall’s ability to switch play and spray passes makes him a fine option for United, while his tendency to bomb forward also suits Carrick’s style of play. Although Shaw scored his first goal of the season in the 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest last weekend, the Red Devils need more attacking impetus from the position. Hall’s abilities make him a fantastic option for the job. This season, the young Englishman has registered one goal and two assists in 46 appearances across all competitions, including 34 starts. Lewis Hall Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League2923115-2,090′ UEFA Champions League106-1–648′ FA Cup32—-231′ EFL Cup33—-196′ Premier League 211–1-90′ Total4646126-3,255′ Source: Transfermarkt. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Hall is open to an exit from St James’ Park this summer amid interest from United. An update on the player’s future has now emerged. Hall not expected to leave Newcastle United A report from Chronicle Live has rubbished talk of Hall’s possible move to Old Trafford this summer, insisting that the player is more likely to sign a new deal with the Magpies. It states: “Newcastle United sources have dismissed talk of Lewis Hall and Man United as speculative.” “Only on Friday Eddie Howe said he plans to keep Hall and Tino Livramento for ‘years to come’. The club are in ongoing discussions with Livramento on a new deal and Hall is a boyhood Newcastle fan so will be more than open to similar talks.” Hall is under contract at St. James’ Park until 2029, so Newcastle are under no pressure to let him go. Final Thoughts United have to put succession plans in place for Shaw soon and Hall is exactly the kind of player they should target. However, unless INEOS can convince the youngster to leave, they may be forced to consider alternative options. Luke Shaw has scored his first Manchester United goal in over 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙚 years ⚽️🔥 Topping off a personal record-breaking season with a goal 👏 pic.twitter.com/vv5bAKfzdz — LiveScore (@livescore) May 17, 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 zero in on South American sensation as new “main target” to replace Casemiro – ESPN
Manchester United are ready to ramp up their pursuit of Danilo as Botafogo appear resigned to losing their midfield dynamo this summer, according to a report from Brazil. The Heir to Casemiro The Red Devils’ most urgent priority is signing a successor to Casemiro, who will play his last game for the club against Brighton & Hove Albion at the weekend. Both the player and club have mutually agreed not to trigger a one-year extension in his expiring contract, with the 34-year-old Brazilian ready to move to Major League Soccer. Inter Miami are said to be leading the race for his signature, though LA Galaxy are refusing to give up hope of muscling in on the deal. United are intent on signing two midfielders, with a third expected to arrive if a buyer is found for Manuel Ugarte. However, the bulk of the budget will be directed towards a defensive enforcer to replace Casemiro. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is understood to be the leading contender, though Real Madrid superstar Aurélien Tchouaméni is an ambitious alternative after recent developments in the Spanish capital. Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United) and Carlos Baleba (Brighton & Hove Albion) are other names on the wish list with the requisite physicality to bolster the engine room. Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), by contrast, is considered too similar to Kobbie Mainoo to form a complementary partnership. However, cheaper options are also being considered should United be unable to close deals for their primary targets, including Atalanta warrior Ederson. Danilo, the 25-year-old Brazil international, is believed to be quickly rising as a priority in the corridors of power at Old Trafford. New Main Target ESPN Brazil claims United now consider Danilo their “main target” to take the reins from Casemiro in midfield. The Mancunian club are “closely monitoring” his situation with Botafogo, with the Brasileiro Série A side said to be “counting on the sale of its star player to ease its financial strain.” Botafogo’s rival, Palmeiras, are also vying for the former Nottingham Forest man’s signature, while Flamengo have also held talks with the Bahia native’s camp, sparking a red-hot race between the two Brazilian sides. The player is open to remaining in his homeland if a “significant offer” from abroad does not materialise. Alongside Casemiro, he was selected by Carlo Ancelotti this week for the Seleção at the World Cup this summer. Botafogo are understood to be asking for a fee in the region of £35 million for their prized asset – a considerable outlay for a transfer in South America, but one which pales in comparison to the figures demanded for midfielders in England. Final Thoughts One of the key traits INEOS are prioritising in midfield is Premier League experience. While Danilo did not enjoy the best of spells with Forest, he remains well-versed in the speed and intensity of football on these shores. He has also shown marked improvements this season, adding a potent goal-scoring threat – nine goals and three assists in 21 games – to his already excellent defensive qualities. Arsenal and Fulham are believed to both be considering a swoop as well. If United are forced to look beyond their first-choice targets to succeed Casemiro, Danilo represents a high-upside option at a reasonable price that would allow more money to be invested elsewhere in the squad. Featured image from 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.
United throw themselves into battle for 31 g/a attacker set to take Carrick’s attack to another level – report
Other than some top central midfielders, many feel that adding a deadly winger to this Manchester United attack would produce a title-challenging team. All eyes are now on which winger INEOS will go for to rectify one of United’s most costly transfer blunders. In a bid to assemble a strong squad for the now sacked Ruben Amorim, who deployed double 10s instead of wingers, United ended up letting all their natural left wingers go. The 20-time English champions now find themselves without that profile, despite Matheus Cunha doing well in the position. A capable alternative from the left is needed, hence the desire to land a deadly winger this summer. According to Attacking Football, that winger could be Ajax’s Mika Godts. Man United’s plan to bring Mika Godts to Old Trafford The last time United signed a winger from Ajax, Antony in 2022, it ended in disaster, but INEOS believe Godts is a different proposition entirely. The Red Devils are set to lean on their strong relationship with the Dutch club to push the deal through, though “INEOS are unlikely to overpay, with the new regime highlighting Antony as one of the stark overpayments in recent seasons.” Godts, nonetheless, is seen as a perfect fit for United’s transfer policy. As Attacking Football adds, “due to Ineos’s mantra of players under 25, and the need for a new left winger at the club, it would not be a surprise to see the Reds make a move for Mika Godts this summer.” Godts as deadly as they come With 17 goals and 14 assists in 42 games, Godts’ numbers speak for themselves. And those who watch him week in, week out describe him as a dynamic, right-footed left-winger known for his explosive dribbling, close control, and dangerous runs in behind. Total Football have gone as far as likening him to a “young Eden Hazard”. So if Hazard 2.0 can do even half of what the Belgian did in his prime, United’s attack would be frightening, though not for them, but for their opponents. Featured image Dean Mouhtaropoulos 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.
Carrick’s dream reunion with midfield metronome in jeopardy as Brighton near agreement – report
A significant update has emerged, throwing a spanner in the works in Manchester United’s pursuit of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney. Hackney interest United are prioritising strengthening their midfield ranks as the summer window nears. With Casemiro set to leave and uncertainty surrounding the future of Manuel Ugarte, the club needs a minimum of two signings. There have been suggestions that the Red Devils could look to acquire as many as three midfielders as they prepare to play Champions League football next season and potentially mount a title challenge. While most transfer talk has centred on players like Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba, and Ederson, a more affordable second tier of stars exists. These players would allow the club to complete multiple signings. Hackney falls in this category. Voted the EFL Championship Player of the Season, Hackney has long been a target for United, with speculation intensifying following Michael Carrick’s appointment as Ruben Amorim’s successor. The pair worked together at Middlesbrough before Carrick’s exit in June 2025. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United remain favourites to snap up Hackney while Carrick is in the dugout. Another report claimed that Crystal Palace had designated Hackney their number one target, threatening to usurp United to his signature. Football Insider have now given an update on the situation. Hackney update According to the news outlet, Newcastle have now entered the race for the 23-year-old, seeking to exploit United’s focus on alternative targets. It’s said that Hackney leaving Middlesbrough this summer is “almost inevitable”, especially if the side fails to secure promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-off final against Hull City. Football Insider add, “Newcastle are likely to have watched his progress this season, but with Brighton, Crystal Palace, Everton and Nottingham Forest all keeping tabs, the race for his signature is ‘wide open.’” Brighton are understood to be close to striking a deal for Hackney, but the Englishman is spoilt for choice and hasn’t made a decision yet. These developments will certainly not go unnoticed by United, who must now determine whether their pursuit of Hackney will be impacted. Hackney has made 38 Championship appearances this season, contributing five goals and eight assists. 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 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 lock horns with Liverpool for red-hot PL forward, INEOS already in “secret” talks with his club – report
Manchester United face mounting pressure to agree a deal for AFC Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi before their fiercest rival strikes first, according to a new report. Eyed by Europe’s Elite Kroupi, 19, has enjoyed an outstanding debut campaign at the Vitality Stadium, finishing as the Cherries’ top scorer with 13 goals – more than double his strike partner, Evanilson. A superb strike in the 1-1 draw with Manchester City last night earned his side their first ever European qualification spot and delivered the Premier League title to Arsenal. It also meant that the France under-21 international, who recently turned down a chance to represent Portugal, is now the top-scoring teenager in Premier League history in their debut season. But it is not simply his prowess in front of goal which has put Europe’s elite, including United, on red-alert. Rather, it is his all-round play, capable of thriving right across the frontline as a multi-purpose attacking threat, which has truly caught the eye. The Red Devils are closely monitoring the Lorient native as they hunt for attacking reinforcements ahead of next season’s return to the Champions League. A left-winger and a more reliable No.9 than Joshua Zirkzee to support Benjamin Sesko are both priorities – with Kroupi’s versatility offering a solution in both positions. Scouts have delivered glowing reports after being dispatched to the south coast to watch the French starlet in action. The player himself is understood to be open to a switch to Old Trafford, though Bournemouth are determined to keep hold of their prized asset this summer. However, there is also major interest from top sides inside and outside of England, with Sports Boom revealing Liverpool are now ready to “step up their pursuit”. Liverpool enter the race The report states the Merseyside club are preparing to make their move as Dutch manager Arne Slot has “personally identified” Kroupi as a priority target. “Sources indicate the Dutchman has personally identified Kroupi as a player capable of becoming one of the Premier League’s standout attacking stars. Slot has been closely monitoring the youngster’s progress and sees him as a talent with enormous potential and a player who could thrive within Liverpool’s attacking system.” But Aston Villa are also understood to be “firmly in the picture” as Unai Emery’s side angle to find a potential replacement for Morgan Rogers, who has been strongly linked to United. Were the 23-year-old England international to leave, Villa would suddenly have “both the funds and the need to move decisively in the market.” Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are also believed to be in the race for Kroupi, while there is interest from the continent in the form of Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. The fact that virtually every top side in European football is “scrambling for position” to secure the next outstanding attacker tells you everything you need to know about the Bournemouth wonderkid’s sky-high potential. Final Thoughts It would be a masterstroke if INEOS were able to fend off competition to secure Kroupi’s signature this summer. He would offer an enormous upgrade on Zirkzee, while retaining the versatility to play alongside Sesko as much as in the Slovenian’s stead. But the fact that it will undoubtedly require a club-record fee for Bournemouth to sell the latest red-hot product from their production line means United are unlikely to be able to stump up the funds needed to do so. However, a report relayed by The Peoples Person/em> claimed INEOS held a “secret transfer meeting” with the Cherries last week, sparking fresh hope a bombshell transfer may be in the works after all. 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 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.
