Bolstering the midfield is at the top of Manchester United’s summer 2026 plans. With Casemiro leaving and doubts lingering over Manuel Ugarte‘s long-term future at the club, Ineos stand ready to spend £150 million to remake their engine room. With that money available to be spent, some fantastic midfielders have been linked with a move to Old Trafford. One of those is Hayden Hackney. Hayden Hackney a long-term target The recently crowned EFL Championship Player of the Year is a player United have been following closely for years. Indeed, they must have been blown away by Hackney’s exploits in the Championship. He stands out as an exceptionally press-resistant and technically gifted midfielder who combines creative, progressive passing with a high-energy work rate. The 23-year-old’s midfield brilliance, coupled with the fact he was a big hit under United caretaker head coach Michael Carrick at the Riverside Stadium, is driving the Red Devils’ interest. Apparently, if Carrick gets the job, the 20-time English champions will press hard to sign Hackney. Premier League rival pressing hard for Hackney But just as all eyes are on the pieces falling into place, Carrick’s appointment, then the move to bring Hackney to Old Trafford, an interesting update on the midfielder has emerged. The Telegraph are reporting: “Crystal Palace make £12m Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney their No 1 target.” Moreover, they explain, “Palace have made Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney their primary summer target as they plan to build on reaching their first European final later this month.” Palace putting United in a tricky spot Consequently, Palace’s decision to make Hackney a top target makes United’s pursuit of his services all the trickier. As a priority signing for the Eagles, they will be ready to spend big on the Championship star. Therefore, that could give Boro an excuse to demand a fortune for the Englishman, which, for United’s ambitious plan to make a number of midfield signings, may prove a significant blow. Hackney may be a top target; however, he is surely not the marquee signing. United may not be keen to spend big on him, even if Palace may now force them to do exactly that. 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 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.
PL side have made Carrick’s dream midfield target their summer priority, INEOS need to hurry – report
Video: 19yo genius knocking on Carrick’s door after mesmerising U21s derby display as United reach PL2 finals
Manchester United Under-21s took on arch-rivals Manchester City Under-21s in the Premier League 2 playoff semi-finals on Friday night. The match was played at the Joie Stadium, a ground which has recently been the subject of controversy as the FA Youth Cup final will also be held there next week, despite it being customary to play such matches at a club’s main stadium. This issue extended to this match, as Premier League 2 rules suggest that semi-finals and finals should also be played at a club’s main stadium. However, once on the pitch, the football did the talking, with an exciting end-to-end 90 minutes of play. First half The home side started the stronger of the two, taking the lead in just the third minute. Reigan Heskey played the ball in behind Sonny Aljofree for Floyd Samba to run into the box and finish high into the net past Will Murdock. Murdock was busy in the opening exchanges, making a big save to deny Samba his second of the match 10 minutes later. City somehow squandered the chance to double their lead when Mahamadou Sangare directed his effort off target from just a couple of yards out. Summer signing and former United target Sverre Nypan was then played through on goal, but the Norwegian international placed his shot wide of the right post. A combination of poor finishing and great goalkeeping from Murdock kept United in the match until the 29th minute, when United drew level at 1-1 through Chido Obi. There was some confusion at the back for City, which allowed Jaydan Kamason to snatch the loose ball and cross deep to Victor Musa, who intelligently headed back across to Obi to head in from close range. Five minutes later, Obi headed home again to make it 1-2. This time, Dan Armer’s switching ball set Shea Lacey free down the right wing before his cross found Obi inside the six-yard box. ⚽️ Chido’s close-range header completed our first-half turnaround against Man City… Keep it going, Reds 👊🔴 pic.twitter.com/BunYxB33i1 — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 8, 2026 The match had been completely turned on its head after City’s early dominance. United had begun to cut through City in attack and did so again in the 42nd minute, when Victor Musa was dragged down inside the area to win his side a penalty. Shea Lacey stepped up to finish low into the left corner to make the scoreline 1-3 at the break. Cool as you like from Shea Lacey. 3-1 United 🥶 #mufc pic.twitter.com/0zAJQsFNZe — Steven Railston (@StevenRailston) May 8, 2026 Second half United continued their momentum into the second half, extending their lead to 1-4 just a minute after the restart. Musa played to Jack Moorhouse, who burst between two defenders into the box before finishing low. City were not out of it though; they pulled one back just minutes later. Heskey was the creator again as he twisted inside and out to create space to cross deep to Sangare, who headed in. Heskey then looked to race into the box to score one of his own, but Kamason recovered to make an important last-ditch tackle. Just after the hour mark, Obi’s effort was cleared off the goal line to deny him his hat-trick as he tried to bundle in the rebound from Musa’s effort. The match was end-to-end with the chances flowing by the end of the match, and it was City who scored next, Heskey finding Samba again to side-foot volley past Murdock. It was backs to the wall stuff for United in the closing stages, but Adam Lawrence’s side did enough to hold on and advance to the Premier League 2 finals. United will take on Brighton & Hove Albion, who defeated Tottenham Hotspur 1-3 in the other semi-final. Match facts United: Murdock; Kamason, Aljofree (c), Armer, Leon; Thwaites (McCormack 90+3), J. Fletcher, Moorhouse, Lacey; Obi (Scanlon 80), Musa (Biancheri 90). Unused subs: Byrne-Hughes, Helafu. Goals: Obi 29, 34, Lacey 43 pen, Moorhouse 46 Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Colm Murphy A football obsessed Canadian who moved to England to enjoy the beautiful game. Colm has been keen follower of Manchester United’s famed academy since seeing a fresh faced Adnan Januzaj for the club’s u18s and has been writing about football with a focus on youth development for over 10 years. You can follow him X: RedYouthUnited.
“New talks next week”: United planning to blow rivals out of the water with stunning bid being prepared – report
Manchester United seem to be edging closer to signing their first midfielder of the summer, if the latest reports are to be believed. As things stand, Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest appears to prefer a switch to Manchester City, while Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali has his eyes on a return to Italy. Crystal Palace metronome Adam Wharton is not compatible alongside Kobbie Mainoo, while Carlos Baleba’s price point might be too high a mountain for the Red Devils to climb. This is why INEOS have been forced to cast a wider net, and long-term target Ederson of Atalanta has re-emerged on the radar. United in pole position for Ederson The race for the Brazilian‘s signature seemed dead and buried when news emerged of Atletico Madrid agreeing a fee with the Italian side. However, a move has stalled and as relayed by The Peoples Person recently, the 20-time English league champions are in pole position to hijack the move. #Ederson–#ManchesterUnited: la prossima settimana nuovi dialoghi. Ne parliamo da oltre un anno e mezzo, lo United è stato il primo club a muoversi. E ora cercherà di anticipare la concorrenza sfondando il muro dei 40 milioni https://t.co/EMKcAesTsL — Alfredo Pedullà (@AlfredoPedulla) May 8, 2026 Lending further credence to that update is today’s story from reputed Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà, who has claimed that the English giants are set to meet with the player’s camp next week. The plan of action seems to be agreeing personal terms with the 26-year-old before beginning talks over a fee with the Bergamo-based side. Talks planned between United and Ederson It is expected that United will bid in excess of €40 million in order to seal the deal. “Ederson-Manchester United: new talks next week. We’ve been discussing it for over a year and a half, United was the first club to make a move. Il #ManchesterUnited vuole prima raggiungere accordo su ingaggio con entourage di #Ederson che l’Atletico Madrid aveva raggiunto da mesi prima di trovare ostacoli (fin qui non superati) sulla valutazione del cartellino https://t.co/vX3oFrDZau — Alfredo Pedullà (@AlfredoPedulla) May 8, 2026 “And now it will try to outpace the competition by breaking the 40 million euro barrier. “Manchester United wants to first reach an agreement on wages with the entourage of Ederson, which Atletico Madrid had reached months ago before encountering obstacles (not yet overcome) on the player’s valuation,” Pedullà wrote on X (formerly Twitter). United need to be wary Ederson can play as both a central midfielder and defensive midfielder and would be an astute purchase, especially considering his price tag. However, they cannot place all their eggs in the Brazilian’s basket and need to sign at least one other top-class midfielder, if not two. The problem will be whether Ederson can translate his Serie A form into the Premier League. The last signing from Atalanta did not exactly set the stage alight after moving to Old Trafford. 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
Red-hot United ace set to be part of the matchday squad vs Sunderland after shrugging off injury scare – report
Manchester United have received a major boost ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Sunderland. There were reports of Matheus Cunha missing the last three games, while Benjamin Sesko also suffered an injury in the win over Liverpool. The Slovenian was withdrawn at half-time after picking up a knock when he collided with the advertising board, and he was expected to miss the game at the Stadium of Light. However, the ever-reliable Sully on X (formerly Twitter) has claimed that the Slovenia international‘s injury is not as serious as initially feared and he has travelled with the rest of the squad. Benjamin Sesko makes quick recovery He is expected to be named in the matchday squad as well. Whether he starts remains to be seen, especially with Champions League football already secured. 🇸🇮✅ Benjamin Sesko is part of the #MUFC travelling squad who have travelled to face Sunderland with the expectation of being in the matchday squad too. His injury which was sustained last week isn’t seen as serious. Decision on Carrick. @UtdDistrict https://t.co/JoKKHm3a8g — Sully (@SullyTalkz) May 8, 2026 “Benjamin Sesko is part of the MUFC travelling squad who have travelled to face Sunderland with the expectation of being in the matchday squad too. “His injury which was sustained last week isn’t seen as serious. Decision on Carrick.” The former RB Leipzig ace has scored 12 goals this season in all competitions, including 10 since Ruben Amorim’s departure. Set to feature vs Sunderland Should Benjamin Sesko not start, and Cunha also be rested, Michael Carrick could finally turn to the fringe players in the squad. Joshua Zirkzee, who is keen to stay amid rumours of a summer exit, is yet to start a game under the caretaker head coach and his time to shine might finally be here. The 20-time English league champions are not planning to rest on their laurels and will want to win all the remaining games on offer, with prize money and third place at stake. The last time these two sides met, the team from Old Trafford prevailed 2-0, and they will want to complete a league double over the high-flying Black Cats. Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
United have “initiated talks” for 23yo French monster, his signing is just what the doctor ordered – report
While strengthening in midfield is Manchester United’s priority in the summer window, they cannot afford to ignore their problems at the back. Lisandro Martinez‘s poor injury record and his anger issues, coupled with Matthijs de Ligt’s back problem, have crippled the Red Devils’ backline this season. Having to play without your best centre-backs was a problem Michael Carrick solved, but the caretaker head coach will know this cannot continue. While Harry Maguire has agreed a new deal, and Ayden Heaven is showcasing what a talent the club have on their hands, it would be a mistake for United to place their trust in the options they have currently, especially as they will be expected to compete on four fronts in the next campaign. United have identified the perfect LCB The ideal profile of defender they should look to recruit is a left-footed centre-back and Football Transfers has claimed that is exactly what the 20-time English league champions are looking at. In fact, they have already initiated talks with RB Leipzig’s , who has proven to be a revelation since moving to Germany. Only 23, the Frenchman is a monster at the back, while being equally comfortable with the ball at his feet. Just what the doctor ordered. The France U21 international is also being courted by Bayern Munich and Manchester City, but the team from Old Trafford are leading the race at the moment. Castello Lukeba talks initiated The former Olympique Lyon ace has an €80 million release clause in his contract but there is a growing feeling he will be allowed to depart for less. “Manchester United have emerged as the frontrunners to sign RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba during the upcoming summer window, FootballTransfers has been told. “The Red Devils are expected to be fairly active in the market this summer and we understand that Lukeba has been earmarked as the club’s primary defensive target as they look to bolster the first-team squad at Old Trafford. “Sources have informed us that Man Utd have already initiated talks with Lukeba’s representatives and they are eager to beat a number of other top clubs to his signature amid historical interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester City. Castello Lukeba release clause details revealed “Lukeba’s current contract at Leipzig, which runs until 2029, is believed to include an €80 million release clause, but there is an expectation that he will be allowed to depart the Bundesliga outfit for a slightly lower fee this summer.” This bears the hallmark of a signing being pushed by director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, who was the former technical director at Leipzig. Whether INEOS can afford such a splurge remains to be seen. But it is clear that Castello Lukeba would be a perfect fit for what the club are looking for at the moment. Feature image Luciano Lima 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
United plan to “accelerate” talks over big-money deal before World Cup, INEOS ready to flex their muscle in the market – report
Manchester United are reportedly planning to secure Bruno Fernandes amidst persistent uncertainty over the captain’s future at the club. The Existing Deal There is a certain irony, perhaps driven by perceived injustice, that Fernandes‘ best season in a red shirt has come in the summer after he was linked with a move away from Old Trafford. Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal proposed an eye-watering financial package to lure the 31-year-old to the Middle East last year. An offer as high as £100 million was the next step had he signalled his intention to accept it. And while United never publicly pushed for their talismanic leader to leave, Fernandes felt that in private the hierarchy would have taken the money had it been tabled. At a minimum, he believed the club did not actively try to reject it. Ultimately, Fernandes decided to rebuff Al-Hilal’s advances, aided by advice from his wife as well as then-head coach Ruben Amorim, who told his compatriot he wanted to build the team around the No 8. Fast forward 10 months and Amorim has been replaced by interim boss Michael Carrick, with a growing certainty the former midfielder will be handed the reins permanently after securing Champions League qualification. Fernandes is on course to break the Premier League’s assist record and is the frontrunner for Player of the Year — two realities which would not have materialised under Amorim. The Maia native is understood to be happy with the current trajectory of the club. However, his existing contract — which runs until 2027, with the option of a one-year extension — contains a release clause worth £57 million to teams outside of England. Interest from Saudi Arabia is expected to be renewed, with this price tag considered pocket change for Al-Hilal, while Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are both credited as suitors. Fernandes would not entertain offers from the former, but the two latter clubs would make life very uncomfortable for United fans if they come knocking. The New Deal In response to this threat swirling around the team’s — and Premier League’s — best player, INEOS are now “set to accelerate contract talks” with Fernandes’ camp, Sports Boom reveals. “Manchester United want captain Bruno Fernandes to commit his future to the club before this summer’s World Cup…Sources close to the situation have told SportsBoom that talks have been ongoing between United bosses and Fernandes’ representatives this season. The Red Devils are understood to have told the Portuguese playmaker they do not want to lose him under any circumstances this summer.” The hope is for a breakthrough to be reached in order to put “pen to paper to a new deal before jetting off to North America for the World Cup” — which would mean just over a month to agree terms. A number of suitors are “monitoring negotiations between the two parties” in hopes of striking if a glimmer of doubt presents itself. Fernandes is said to have asked for a “commitment” from INEOS to invest heavily in the squad ahead of a return to Europe’s elite competition next season. With a war chest expected to top last summer’s £240 million outlay, as one senior source predicts, this ambition looks to be shared by both parties. Final Thoughts On the pitch, there is no doubt Fernandes deserves a new contract on improved terms, particularly as his release clause leaves United susceptible to raids from the continent. However, off the pitch, the situation is more complicated. He turns 32 in September, an age at which most footballers begin to slow down as Father Time takes its toll. You only need to look down the road towards Anfield to see the effect handing a big-money deal to an ageing superstar can have on a top team. But Fernandes is ageing like the finest of wines, with a level of physical output and resistance to injury that defies a player who is 22 years old, let alone one a decade older. While there will always be a risk offering this type of extension, O capitão is as close to a sure thing as you can get. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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 legend explains how “calm, composed” 23-yo has “steadied the ship” at Old Trafford
Few Manchester United fans would have predicted the impact Senne Lammens has had at Old Trafford since arriving last summer. The Red Devils, plagued by goalkeeping woes for two campaigns, opted to put their trust in a relatively unknown Belgian plying his trade with Royal Antwerp. Lammens arrived at the Theatre of Dreams on transfer deadline day for a reported £18 million fee. The Premier League giants were also linked with a move for Aston Villa’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The Argentine is one of the finest in his position in the league and is also well-versed in the rigours of the top tier of English football. However, United decided to take a leap of faith to sign the Belgian, banking on the experience and expertise of their chief goalkeeping scout, Tony Coton. It has to be said that Lammens has been worth his weight in gold so far, with the goalkeeping department now making news for the right reasons. Comparisons with Edwin van der Sar Lammens has registered six clean sheets in 34 appearances in all competitions so far, bringing stability and calmness between the sticks that was lacking under his predecessor, Andre Onana. For a relatively unproven young player, the Belgian has coped well with the physicality of the Premier League, while his dominance at set pieces has been a refreshing change from the Cameroonian. Senne Lammens Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoals ConcededClean SheetsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League29376–2,610′ Jupiler Pro League44—360′ FA Cup12—90′ Total34436–3,060′ Source: Transfermarkt. United have had some tremendous goalkeepers in the past and Lammens has previously revealed that he looks up to the legendary Edwin van der Sar. The Dutchman arrived at the Theatre of Dreams in the summer of 2005, and went on to etch his name in gold in the club’s illustrious history. By the time he retired in 2011, Van der Sar had registered 138 clean sheets in 312 appearances for the Premier League giants, conceding 259 goals. The Dutchman won 11 trophies at Old Trafford, including four Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League. During his time, Van der Sar also set the record for most minutes without conceding a goal (1,311) in the Premier League, a feat that stands to this day. The legendary goalkeeper has previously heaped praise on Lammens and has shared his thoughts on the young goalkeeper once again. Lammens has steadied United Speaking to former United goalkeeper Ben Foster on the Fozcast podcast, Van der Sar insisted that Lammens has steadied the ship since coming to Old Trafford. He said: “I think I saw a few games when he played in Belgium, at Antwerp, but to come to one of the best, the best league in the world, to a club that is in difficulty, United the last couple of years, it’s chop and change, managers, players, all kinds of things.” “And I think he steadied the ship when he came in, made the saves that he needed to make, was brave coming out, played with his feet also, a calm, composed figure.” The Flying Dutchman registered 25 clean sheets in 51 appearances in his debut campaign, conceding just 40 times. Inadvertently, there have been comparisons between Van der Sar and Lammens’ debut campaigns, but the former custodian was quick to play them down. The former Ajax graduate went on to outline why the Belgian’s efforts are even more impressive, adding: “I think comparable, let’s say, to how I played, but I came there at 34. So, in that way, he’s doing tremendously well.” Final Thoughts Van der Sar had bags of experience when he arrived at Old Trafford, which helped him settle quickly at the club. As such, it might be unfair to compare Lammens to the legendary Dutchman at the moment. However, early signs suggest that the Belgian could prove to be just as important to United’s cause in the long run. Senne Lammens made his United debut in the reverse fixture against Sunderland 👊🌟 How impressed have you been with our Belgian keeper this season? 💭 pic.twitter.com/rHZE5sTrVP — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 8, 2026 Featured image by Michael Regan/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 hopes of signing PL midfield warrior in jeopardy as Euro giants close in on deal – Ben Jacobs
Manchester United’s hopes of signing Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes have been dashed by the latest update on the Samba star. With United known to be pursuing top midfielders for their planned summer rebuild, the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfield warrior has emerged as a top target. And it is easy to understand why Gomes is attracting interest from Old Trafford. He offers exactly what United’s engine craves. A midfield destroyer, deep-lying playmaker and box-to-box midfielder all rolled into one, his tireless running, amazing work rate and tenacity, mixed with really good technique and playmaking ability, give him everything it takes to be the perfect Casemiro replacement. Despite Wolves’ Premier League struggles, he has impressed. Joao Gomes bound for Wanda Metropolitano Unfortunately, as Ineos dilly-dally in their pursuit of his services, a telling update has dropped. Ben Jacobs is reporting: “Atletico Madrid now close to a deal for Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes. “Parties, via intermediaries, are in advanced talks and are nearing a verbal agreement worth around €45m.” Jacobs’ update is certainly a big blow to United’s hopes of signing Gomes. The only thing that can save United now is moving fast and hijacking the deal. Ederson, now Gomes: Atletico have an agenda against United Interestingly, Gomes is not the only United target the Spanish side are trying to sign. Not long ago, reports suggested the Diego Simeone-led side had reached an agreement with Ederson over a summer switch. While that deal has since stalled, with a club-to-club agreement proving the sticking point, this one, for Gomes, may not, with figures already floated. Gomes would have been a fine United midfield addition, and it would be great to see his deal hijacked. However, if not, hopefully Ineos have better midfield signings lined up, ones that would make a Gomes-to-Atleti move irrelevant to the Old Trafford faithful. Featured image Naomi Baker 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 in hot pursuit of Everton flop showing his class in Serie A, stunning £53.6m deal can be finalised in July – report
Manchester United remain open to adding more firepower to their attacking line ahead of next season. The Red Devils transformed their attack last summer by bringing in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. Given how their past signings have fared, it is not far-fetched to say that the trio have been successes so far. However, their depth up front remains underwhelming, especially for a club set for a Champions League campaign. Manchester United interested in Moise Kean According to Corriere dello Sport, Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Moise Kean. The 26-year-old Italian was once regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting striker prospects after breaking through at Juventus. He then moved to Everton. Kean never managed to find his feet in the Premier League, scoring just four times in 39 appearances for the Toffees. However, he has rebuilt his reputation at Fiorentina, having bagged 34 goals in 77. The Italian publication claims there are doubts as to whether Kean will stay in Florence beyond this season. United have reportedly “consistently followed” him for months. Last year, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming there was “regret” at Old Trafford about missing out on Kean despite Sesko’s arrival. Kean’s current contract runs until 2029, but it includes a release clause worth €62m (£53.6m). This will be active between 1 July and 15 July. During this period, Fiorentina would be powerless if United approach. Moise Kean is too expensive According to The Athletic, United want to sign an experienced centre-forward in the summer. Kean certainly fits the brief in that regard, having made his senior debut in 2016. Despite his difficult spell at Everton, the imposing number nine’s experience of English football may also work in his favour. However, the €62m price tag should prevent United from making any serious move for Kean, given the striker position is not the club’s priority. The Red Devils intend to spend the vast majority of their budget on overhauling the midfield. For the rest, United are allegedly studying this summer’s list of free agents. Featured image Timothy Rogers 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 reach final decision on pursuit of £90m PL wizard who is willing to join Red Devils – report
Manchester United’s pursuit of talismanic skipper Bruno Fernandes’ ideal successor has seen them linked with several creative players across the continent. The 31 year old has been the heartbeat of the Red Devils since arriving at Old Trafford in January 2020. He is on the brink of history this season after picking up 19 Premier League assists. With three games left in the campaign, Fernandes could equal or break the league record for most assists in a season (20), jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. The Portuguese is only the third player after Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney to register 100 goals and 100 assists for United in the club’s illustrious history. However, Fernandes is already on the wrong side of 30 and his contract expires at the end of next season. While the Portuguese has shown no signs of slowing down, the Red Devils have to lay down succession plans soon. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests INEOS have their eyes on Chelsea’s Cole Palmer for the job. Cole’s struggles this season Palmer rose through the ranks at Manchester City, but after struggling for game time, he left in the summer of 2023 to join Chelsea. The Englishman enjoyed an outstanding debut season with the Blues, registering 27 goals and 15 assists in 48 appearances. He won Chelsea’s Player of the Season as well as the Players’ Player of the Season, while he was also adjudged the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season, among other personal accolades. While the 24 year old could not match those returns in his second campaign, he was still quite impressive. However, Palmer has struggled for form and fitness this season, while the managerial upheavals at Stamford Bridge have not helped either. The Englishman has registered 10 goals and three assists in 30 outings in all competitions this campaign, missing 26 games for club and country with various knocks. Cole Palmer Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League2321914-1,696′ UEFA Champions League4312–277′ FA Cup21–1-81′ EFL Cup10—-30′ Total30251035-2,084′ Source: Transfermarkt. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Palmer is unsettled at Chelsea and could consider a move to Old Trafford this summer. An update on the Englishman’s future has now emerged. United end Palmer pursuit According to The Express, United have pulled the plug on their pursuit of Palmer this summer. The report states: “Manchester United have ruled out a blockbuster summer move for Cole Palmer. Express Sport understands that United’s hierarchy have concluded that pursuing the England and Chelsea star does not feature among their primary objectives for the upcoming window.” The report insists that while Palmer is impressed by the resurgence under caretaker manager Carrick, the Red Devils have other priorities this summer. It adds: “Manchester-born Palmer grew up as a United supporter before joining Manchester City – and has been impressed by their recent resurgence under interim manager Michael Carrick.” “However, United have other areas of the squad to bolster ahead of the coming season, especially with Bruno Fernandes in such glittering form in the No.10 role.” The report adds that United are aware that a move for Palmer would cost around £90 million, which may be beyond their budget. It concluded: “United have admitted privately that Palmer would be an expensive luxury the club doesn’t need and cannot afford.” Final Thoughts On paper, Palmer looks like the ideal replacement for Fernandes. However, the Portuguese’s stunning form this season suggests that United should put all their efforts into ensuring he stays at Old Trafford for as long as possible. 14 – Bruno Fernandes has created 5+ chances in 14 different Premier League games in 2025-26. On record since 2003-04, only Mesut Özil has done so more often in a season (15 times in 2015-16). Relentless. pic.twitter.com/YHjY2oPLg5 — OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 3, 2026 Featured image Ben Roberts photo 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.
