Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba has spoken out about the speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United, and whether it has negatively impacted his performances this season. United remain interested in Baleba During the summer transfer window, United explored a move for a midfielder, having identified Baleba as their priority target. Ruben Amorim’s side approached Brighton to enquire about the conditions of getting a deal over the line. However, they pulled out of negotiations after learning the Seagulls’ excessive asking price for the Cameroonian. United are expected to sign at least one top-class midfielder next summer and Baleba is believed to still be on their list, despite his decline in form so far this term. He has been unable to replicate the incredible performances that initially put him on the Red Devils radar. Baleba has completed 90 minutes of football just once this season. He has been hooked at half-time on four separate occasions. Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has repeatedly blamed the United rumours for turning Baleba’s head. However, according to the 21-year-old star, this is not the case for his struggles. He spoke to Sky Sports and revealed that he holds himself to a high standard and is training rigorously to meet it again. Baleba speaks He said [as quoted by Tribal Football], “I don’t think it affected me negatively, but I had a lot of pressure on me.” “When I started this season, I wanted to show the same performances as last season.” Baleba added, “Every day I try to work hard and get back to my level.” “Did I put too much pressure on myself? Yes, I think so, but I think it’s good.” “It’s good for me, because now I have to get through this slightly stressful period, get back on the horse and continue working hard.” Meanwhile, United return to action on Monday night when they welcome Bournemouth to Old Trafford. Featured image Mike Hewitt 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 star ready to snub Barcelona and join Real Madrid in surprise move, Florentino Perez is confident – report
Barcelona’s decision to place their trust in Manchester United academy product Marcus Rashford has proven to be successful so far. Rashford has scored six goals and registered 11 assists in 22 appearances across all competitions, having rediscovered his confidence in the final third under Hansi Flick. The Englishman is currently on a season-long loan at Camp Nou and the Blaugrana have an option to buy him permanently next summer. Heading into the January transfer window, Barca are allegedly eyeing a move for another United academy graduate. Barcelona enter race to sign Kobbie Mainoo Marcus Rashford had to leave United after a fallout with Ruben Amorim last year. While that is not the case with Kobbie Mainoo, it is clear that the Portuguese tactician doesn’t consider the midfielder suitable for his system. The dynamic midfielder, who started in the Euro 2024 final for England, is still waiting for his first Premier League start this term. According to Defensa Central, United have opened the door for Mainoo to leave in January. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are interested in the 20-year-old, as they supposedly value his physicality and excellent ball control in tight spaces. Real Madrid are in the driving seat for Mainoo It is claimed Barcelona president Joan Laporta is keen to lure Mainoo to Camp Nou. The Catalan giants want to strengthen their midfield options, as Gavi is sidelined with a knee injury. However, Real chief Florentino Perez is thought to be “calm”. Los Blancos are confident their fierce rivals are no match for them in the transfer market. The Spanish outlet adds that the United youngster prefers to move to Santiago Bernabeu. However, Real will need to act swiftly, as a number of Serie A clubs, including Napoli, have already made enquiries to sign Mainoo. Featured image Shaun Botterill 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!
Kanchelskis tours Carrington
The former Red was back in Manchester and came to see our training base.
United aim to stop the rot against recent bogey side with help of talisman
Manchester United will welcome AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League for their final home match before Christmas. The two sides have faced each other 24 times in history. United have come out on top on 14 occasions, while the Cherries have won five matches. There have also been five draws between the two sides. Here are three storylines to whet the appetite. The Cherries a bogey side Despite United’s historical dominance over the Cherries, this has not been the case in recent years. The Red Devils are winless in their last four Premier League matches against Bournemouth. They have suffered two losses and two draws during this period. Their record at Old Trafford has actually been worse, having lost 0-3 in each of the last two seasons. The BBC reports that no side has achieved three victories in a row away against the Red Devils in the top flight while scoring three or more goals each time. Bruno Fernandes loves facing Bournemouth Bruno Fernandes has been such a dominant player for United during his five years in England that he probably has this sort of record against most teams. Nonetheless, he has a stellar record against the Cherries. Fresh off a double against Wolverhampton Wanderers last Monday, Fernandes will be looking to cause more damage tomorrow. The Portuguese international has scored three goals and provided three assists in seven matches against them. His best performance came when he grabbed a double against them at The Vitality Stadium in April 2024. Bournemouth in no sort of form Despite a strong start to the season, the Cherries have slowed down considerably. The BBC reports that, “Bournemouth are winless in their last six Premier League matches, drawing two and losing four. They haven’t endured “a longer winless streak since between December and February in the 2023-24 campaign (seven games).” United will hope to add to their woes on Monday night. Man United recent results vs Bournemouth DateVenueResult 27th April 2025Vitality1-1 draw 22nd December 2024Old Trafford0-3 loss 13th April 2024Vitality2-2 draw 9th December 2023Old Trafford0-3 loss 20th May 2023Vitality 1-0 win 3rd January 2023Old Trafford3-0 win Source:transfermarkt.com Featured image Patrick McDermott 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: 1 assist, 5 key passes, 100% dribbles: United loanee continues dream loan in League Two
Manchester United had a selection of loanees in action on Saturday afternoon and evening. To find out where all of United’s loaned players are plying their trade this season, click here. Ethan Ennis The Fleetwood Town winger stole the show last weekend in the FA Cup with a double and was once again impressive yesterday afternoon. Ennis provided one assist for his side in their 2-0 victory over Newport. The winger beat his man for pace and skill down the left before curling in a sumptuous cross for Finley Potter to head in. He made five key passes and created two big chances, demonstrating his creativity throughout the afternoon. The winger completed 100% of his dribbles and also won an impressive four out of his six ground duels in an all-round strong showing. Jack Moorhouse The Irish midfielder also picked up an assist for Leyton Orient in their 2-3 loss to Barnsley. He ran at the Tykes’ defence and slipped a beautiful ball in for his striker to roll past the keeper. Moorhouse also made three key passes and won his only tackle of the match. He made two interceptions in the match. Marcus Rashford The England international played 74 minutes of FC Barcelona’s 2-0 win over Osasuna. The forward made two key passes and had a total of three shots on goal. One of these was on target, and it was also classified as a big miss in the context of the match. Dan Gore Gore played the entire 90 minutes of Rotherham United’s 0-1 loss to Plymouth Argyle. The midfielder made two key passes and two interceptions. His crossing was disappointing, as he only found a teammate once out of his seven attempts. He also had two shots on goal, but neither found the target. Radek Vitek The Czech goalkeeper could not stop his side from slipping to a 0-1 defeat to league leaders Coventry City. Vitek made three saves in the match, with one effort coming from inside the area. He also made two high claims and won his only aerial battle in a tightly contested match. Ethan Wheatley The Northampton Town striker played 56 minutes in his team’s 2-1 defeat to Peterborough United. The young striker failed to have any shots on goal but did complete two successful dribbles during the game. In a sign of his inability to get involved in the action, he only completed four passes and lost all of his aerial contests. Ethan Williams Williams played the final 22 minutes of Falkirk’s 0-2 defeat to Hearts of Midlothian. In a poor effort, he only completed six passes and lost both his ground duels. Joe Hugill The striker continued his recovery from injury with a 12-minute substitute appearance for Barnet in their 3-1 defeat to Chesterfield. Ethan Ennis stats vs Newport MetricValue Goals0 Assists1 Big chances created2 Key passes5 Crosses (accurate)11 (5) Accurate passes23/28 (82%) Passes in opposition half (accurate)16/18 (89%) Passes in own half (accurate)7/10 (70%) Long balls (accurate)1/3 (33%) Total shots0 Shots on target0 Shots blocked0 Touches52 Unsuccessful touches3 Dribbles (successful)1 (1) Was fouled1 Possession lost15 Tackles (won)2 (1) Interceptions0 Clearances1 Blocked shots0 Recoveries7 Ground duels (won)6 (4) Featured image Ian MacNicol 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.
3-4-3: buzzing with confidence, this ultra-attacking United XI will crush Bournemouth on Monday
Ruben Amorim may have Benjamin Sesko back in his Manchester United squad for Monday’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth at Old Trafford. The head coach explained at the pre-match press conference that Sesko has recovered from the injury that had kept him sidelined for the past month, but he is still a doubt for the game as he is suffering from food poisoning. Meanwhile, both Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire remain out injured. Defence Senne Lammens will be in goal, having hardly put a foot wrong since joining the club from Royal Antwerp on deadline day. The back three will probably remain unchanged, with Noussair Mazraoui on the right, Ayden Heaven in the middle, and Luke Shaw on the left. Lisandro Martinez is an option, but it is very unlikely Amorim will play him alongside Shaw as it would leave United very vulnerable in the air. Leny Yoro is also an option, but the boss seems to have lost some faith in him since he conceded a penalty against Crystal Palace. Diogo Dalot has been showing some good form at left wing-back and should keep his place ahead of Patrick Dorgu. Amad has also been excellent on the right. Midfield and Attack It seems inevitable that Amorim will continue with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in central midfield, even though the Brazilian was sloppy and off the pace last time out. Manuel Ugarte is struggling to impress at the moment, and the boss just does not seem to trust Kobbie Mainoo in the number six role. Up front, even if Sesko is fit, he could start on the bench. Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount looked impressive flanking Matheus Cunha against Wolves last time out, so that seems the likely starting trio. If our prediction is correct, it means United will be unchanged, which is a rare event under the Portuguese coach. Here, then, is our predicted XI for Monday’s 8pm kick-off: Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Manchester United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Red Billy Red Billy is the managing editor of The Peoples Person, author of three books and two magazines and totally obsessed with football’s transfer market. Billy first saw United live in 1971, watching George Best, Bobby Charlton and Denis Law, before becoming a League Match ticket book holder from 1975/76 and a writer since 1995. Billy still insists Matteo Darmian and Alex Telles could have made it at United given half a chance.
United set to miss out on German colossus as he nears move to European giants – report
Manchester United may have improved significantly this season, but their defensive frailties remain a concern for Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese head coach refurbished his attack over the summer by removing the deadwood and adding Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to his squad. Meanwhile, the Red Devils also addressed their long-standing goalkeeper issue by signing Senne Lammens on deadline day. United have massively improved in the final third, scoring the third-most goals in the league this season, and ended the weekend sixth in the Premier League table. However, they have also conceded the second-most goals in the top half of the table, after 15 games. A better performance at the back could have placed them further up the table, so the English giants are expected to consider defensive additions in 2026. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Red Devils have Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck on their radar. One of Bundesliga’s best defenders Nico Schlotterbeck will enter the final 18 months of his contract with the Bundesliga giants in January and is yet to sign a new deal. The situation, understandably, has added to speculation regarding his future, especially since he is considered one of the finest defenders in the Bundesliga. This season, the German has made 16 appearances across all competitions for BVB, while also recording one goal and two assists. Nico Schlotterbeck Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Bundesliga9122-810′ UEFA Champions League5—-380′ DFB-Pokal2—-210′ Total16122-1,400′ Source: Transfermarkt.Harry Maguire is out of contract in just over six months, so a move for Schlotterbeck certainly makes sense for the Red Devils. With Luke Shaw also on the wrong side of 30 and Lisandro Martinez suffering from injuries, the left-footed German defender could fit Amorim’s tactics perfectly. A previous report from The Peoples Person states that Barcelona are also eyeing the player with interest. However, it now appears that the 26 year old could end up staying in Germany. Schlotterbeck open to Allianz Arena move According to journalist Christian Falk, as cited by TEAMtalk, Schlotterbeck is open to a move to Bayern Munich. However, the Bavarians have not made a move for the German defender yet. Bayern’s preference is to tie Dayot Upamecano down to a new deal, with the player due to become a free agent next summer. If the Frenchman ends up leaving, the Bundesliga champions could turn their attention to Schlotterbeck. However, if Upamecano ends up staying, Bayern may no longer pursue a move for the German defender. As such, all is not lost for United in this race. Final Thoughts United have struggled to prevent goals for a while, and if they are to return to their glory days, they will have to improve their defence. A move for Schlotterbeck ticks several boxes, and his contract situation could also allow the club to secure a cut-price deal next summer. The Red Devils should do everything in their power to convince the German to move to the Theatre of Dreams. Featured image Alex Grimm 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 hold talks over 2026 defender transfer, with INEOS poised to strike deal with Real Madrid for 26‑yo – report
Diogo Dalot’s days as a Manchester United player appear to be numbered, with the latest revelations casting serious doubt over the defender’s long-term future at Old Trafford. Indeed, having joined from FC Porto back in 2018, Dalot is now the second-longest-serving United player at the club, behind only Luke Shaw. Moreover, a full-back by trade, capable of operating on either flank, the Portuguese international’s versatility has been the one quality that has consistently made him stand out at United. Indeed, his adaptability has ensured he has played a key role under every Manchester United head coach he has worked with since arriving. Inconsistency Under Amorim Nevertheless, while his work ethic has often been praised, Dalot has struggled with inconsistency. Under Ruben Amorim, this weakness has become more evident, with the United head coach even calling him out publicly for his fluctuating performances. As United prepare to push forward with their rebuild next year, prioritising reinforcements in midfield and at wing-back, it is becoming increasingly clear that some players may have to be sacrificed. Dalot Among Possible Departures According to Teamtalk’s Graeme Bailey, Dalot could be one of those players. Bailey explains: “Dalot’s long-term future is being discussed internally by Man Utd, as the club have been made aware of possible interest in the Portuguese international.” He goes on to reveal why Manchester United are considering the idea of letting Dalot go: “While Wilcox and his staff are happy with Dalot as he is doing well, they are also aware that the former FC Porto player’s next deal would require a bit of a pay rise, so there are early-stage discussions about him.” Where Next for Dalot? Speculation over Dalot’s next destination has already begun. Bailey reports: “Real Madrid are interested in a 2026 deal for Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot.” However, it is not just the Spanish giants who are circling. Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich are also admirers of the 26-year-old’s versatility and would be keen to bring him in. Although Dalot’s current contract runs until 2028, this update significantly clouds his long-term prospects at United. Ultimately, for all his service and adaptability, there is now a genuine possibility he may not see out his deal at Old Trafford. Feature image Justin Setterfield 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’s pursuit of ball-playing French defender under threat from Real Madrid – report
Manchester United’s attempts to secure the signature of a highly rated French starlet may have just hit a roadblock. The Red Devils are alert to the emergence of young talents from across the continent as they attempt to assemble a squad capable of returning them to the pinnacle of success. The Premier League giants have invested wisely in the transfer market since INEOS’ arrival at the Theatre of Dreams, and have spent over £200 million in the attacking and goalkeeping departments this summer. While the midfield is likely to be the focus in 2026, United continue to keep an eye out for opportunities to reinforce other areas of the pitch. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Red Devils have set their sights on young Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, who could be available for €30-40 million. A very capable defender Jacquet is now an established name in Rennes’ backline and has been scouted by United in recent months. The English giants are pleased with his performances so far, and are already considering a move for the Frenchman. Jacquet has registered 15 appearances across competitions this season for the Ligue 1 side, all of which have been starts. Until his red card against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) last weekend, the 20 year old had played every minute of every game in the league this season. Jeremy Jacquet Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Ligue 115–311,334′ Total15–311,334′ Source: Transfermarkt. Jacquet is strong in the air, very capable with the ball, and has a mature head on his shoulders. The Red Devils already have a talented young French defender in their squad in Leny Yoro and are now eager to get their hands on Jacquet as well. However, it now appears that the Premier League giants will face stiff competition from another European side in the race for the young defender’s signature. Real Madrid want Jacquet According to Fichajes, Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Jacquet. The LaLiga giants are laying down succession plans for David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, both of whom are in the final phase of their careers. Although Los Blancos invested in Dean Huijsen, they remain interested in further reinforcements, especially with Eder Militao struggling to stay fit. Jacquet is exactly the kind of profile that Real Madrid have been targeting in recent times. The player’s name is already part of discussions at Valdebebas, but they remain cautious in their approach, given the big leap in quality between Ligue 1 and LaLiga. However, the rising interest in the Frenchman’s services could prompt the Spanish giants to accelerate their pursuit. Rennes, meanwhile, are relaxed about the matter, especially since they know they have a gem on their hands. Jacquet is under contract until 2029, so the French side have complete control over his future. United, as such, will have to move fast if they wish to win this race. Final Thoughts The Jacquet saga could evoke a sense of déjà vu among United fans. Around 18 months ago, the Red Devils were hot on the heels of Leny Yoro when Real Madrid threatened to ruin their plans. However, the English giants held their ground and prised the young defender from right under the LaLiga giants’ noses. Fans will be hoping they can repeat the feat with Jacquet. Featured image Christopher Furlong 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.
From Italy: Roma ready to sign Zirzkee on one condition as Man Utd name their price
Roma remain adamant about recruiting Joshua Zirkzee in January, but the deal largely hinges on the conditions set by Manchester United.The Netherlands international has been relegated to the bench this season following the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and, most importantly, Benjamin Sesko. He only earned a three-match run in the starting lineup following the Slovenian striker’s injury, before being dropped against more against Wolves.Therefore, the 24-year-old’s future at Carrington is no longer certain, especially amidst growing interest from Serie A.Man United seeking £31m to part ways with Joshua ZirkzeeIn recent weeks, Roma emerged as the clear frontrunners in the race for the former Bologna star. The Italian capital side are keen to bolster their attacking ranks, as Evan Ferguson and Artem Dovbyk haven’t been able to find the back of the net on a consistent basis.(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)Earlier this week, reports claimed that Roma and Man Utd are in active talks over a potential Zirkzee transfer in the middle of the season.And while Fabrizio Romano insisted that MUFC want to keep Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo at the beginning of January, there could be room to manoeuvre later in the month when Adam Diallo and Mbeumo return from the African Cup of Nations.According to TuttoMercatoWeb, Man Utd have set their asking price at €35 million (circa £31m), which should be enough to prevent a capital loss on the striker who cost them £37.5 million in the summer of 2024.Roma set key condition to sign ZirkzeeFor their part, Roma are willing to meet the asking price and sign the Dutchman on loan with an obligation to buy at the end of the season, but only if this clause is linked to a Champions League qualification.In other words, the Serie A side doesn’t wish to commit to a deal unless they guarantee UCL prize money. Zirkzee’s career stats Apperances Goals Assists Man Utd 58 8 3 Parma 58 14 9 Anderlecht 47 18 13 Bayern Munich 17 4 1 Parma 4 0 0 Despite his humble scoring stats, Zirkzee has endeared himself to the crowds at Old Trafford thanks to his generous work rate and on-the-ball skills.Moreover, Amorim would lose an attacker who offers alternative attributes to the likes of Cunha and Sesko, so it remains to be seen if the manager would sanction this exit.
