Manchester United will reportedly add an academy product to their midfield department this season, with three youngsters emerging as candidates.Michael Carrick has been operating with limited options in the middle of the park. He only has three out-and-out midfielders in Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, and Manuel Ugarte, while Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount are his options for the attacking-midfielder spot.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYWith Casemiro departing at the end of the season and Ugarte placed on the market, three additions could be required in the summer.Three young Man United midfielders competing for a first-team spotIn his latest Q & A, the Manchester Evening News writer Tyrone Marshall was asked about Man Utd’s midfield plans.While the journalist didn’t rule out the signing of three new midfielders in the summer, he believes buying two and promoting an academy product might be the most plausible scenario.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustWith so many names being floated on the market, it remains extremely difficult to envision which midfielders MUFC will buy next season. The shortlist includes Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Aurelien Tchouameni, Carlos Baleba, and Ederson.But when it comes to internal promotion, Marshall believes the casting can be limited to three viable candidates: Jim Thwaites, Tyler Fletcher, and Jack Moorhouse.Interestingly, the other Fletcher twin, Jack, hasn’t been mentioned, despite being the first to make his senior debut out of the bunch.Jack Fletcher made his three successive Premier League appearances this season against Aston Villa, Newcastle, and Wolves, all coming in December.However, the 19-year-old gradually faded from the scene following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal and his father’s (Darren Fletcher) two-game stewardship.Why Tyler Fletcher could be the favourite for Man Utd promotionWhile his twin brother, Jack, has been exclusively featuring for Man Utd U21 since Michael Carrick’s arrival, Tyler Fletcher earned his debut in February against Spurs.Although he hasn’t played with the seniors ever since, he has become a constant presence in the dugout, marking him as the manager’s favourite candidate for a permanent promotion.Therefore, Carrick’s confirmation as Man Utd boss could pave the way for Tyler Fletcher’s first-team promotion in the summer.On the other hand, Moourhouse represents a slightly older (20) and more experienced profile. The Ireland U21 international is spending the current season at Leyton Orient, making 20 appearances in League One.The Manchester native excels at carrying the ball forward, while Tyler Fletcher tends to operate from a deeper role. Hence, the decision could come down to which skillset would be more beneficial for the squad. This could certainly hinge on the identity of the new signings. Midfielder Age Current Team Man Utd First-Team Appearances Tyler Fletcher 19 Man Utd U21 1 Jack Fletcher 19 Man Utd U21 3 Jack Moorhouse 20 Leyton Orient (loan) 0 Jim Thwaites 18 Man Utd U18 0 Finally, Thwaites might be the most talented and promising profile of the lot. The 18-year-old has already earned comparisons to the likes of Pedri, Toni Kroos, and Thiago Alcantara thanks to his remarkable composure on the ball and ability to operate in tight spaces.Thwaites also impressed during last month’s training camp in Dublin. However, the teenager has spent the bulk of his campaign with Man Utd U18, so catapulting him straight into the first team (without going through the U21 ranks or a loan spell) could be slightly risky.
Journalist: Three Man Utd youngsters vying for first-team spot next season – Amorim’s favourite snubbed

“Nightmare”: Bruno and Keane share this same frightening trait, says ex-United coach
Former Manchester United coach Steve McClaren has insisted that Roy Keane and Bruno Fernandes share a “nightmare” quality. Keane and Fernandes similarity McClaren worked as an assistant to the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson and later Erik ten Hag. Under Sir Alex, he helped guide United through one of the club’s most successful eras. During Ten Hag’s tenure, United won the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. McClaren would go on to depart the club for the second time in July 2024 amidst a coaching reshuffle initiated by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS. The 64-year-old was fortunate enough to coach two of the club’s greatest captains — Keane and the current armband holder, Fernandes. Keane’s iconic standing at United needs no introduction, but Fernandes’ brilliance is forged from something else entirely — shining brightly through United’s most challenging chapter. So far this season, Fernandes has netted eight goals and contributed an additional 19 assists. He is just two assists shy of breaking the Premier League record (20), which is jointly held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. The Portugal international is a strong candidate to win the Premier League Player of the Year award. Keane hasn’t always been Fernandes’ biggest fan, occasionally criticising what he perceives as petulance on the pitch. But according to McClaren, the two may have far more in common than Keane would care to admit. Common trait Speaking to The Athletic, McClaren said, “We had one spell when we said to Roy, ‘You’ve got to calm down a bit’. Because it was beginning to be a problem. Through the trouble he got into, he used to miss five or six games a season.” “He tried to calm down, and he was rubbish. So we said, ‘Forget that, be yourself, it’s all right, we’ll miss you for five games, don’t want you to be a pussycat on the field.” “And Bruno is the same. When I used to have to be the referee in training, he’s a nightmare. It’s just passion. He’s fit, he runs around, he scores, he assists, his numbers are phenomenal.” On Fernandes’ playmaking mastery, McClaren remarked, “I used to see that every week in training. Better than that. I’d think, ‘How did you see that?’. That’s what Bruno has. Scholesy had that too. ‘Never saw that’, I’d say to people.” Kobbie Mainoo’s breakthrough Earlier this week, United confirmed that Mainoo finally signed a new contract after months of speculation over his future. The England international is set to remain at Old Trafford at least until 2031. Mainoo was no stranger to hype during his academy days. Yet after Ten Hag gave him his opportunity, the youngster broke into the first team, never looked back and has since developed into the key player he is today. McClaren told The Athletic he was blown away by Mainoo when he saw him in first-team action. “He came out of nowhere and Erik suddenly went, ‘He’s training with us.’ That’s totally down to Erik. I remember him saying first day, ‘Watch him’. I couldn’t believe it, never gave the ball away. Strong as an ox.” “Then Erik played him. I went, ‘He’s terrific.’ He was Erik’s kind of player, in terms of build-up from the back and being able to take the ball.” McClaren added, “I want him to be more authoritative on the field, even when he plays for England. He is neat and tidy. But he is capable of imposing himself more. He wants to be top, top. Casemiro has helped him.” Mainoo of course recently named Casemiro and Fernandes as the two United teammates he has learned the most from. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
“Strong, concrete, real” – Romano reveals Man Utd star’s most likely destination
Fabrizio Romano believes Manchester United midfielder Casemiro will most likely sign for a Major League Soccer club in the summer.The Brazilian is currently enjoying his best campaign since joining the Red Devils in the summer of 2022. This has also been his most prolific campaign in Europe in terms of goal-scoring, having already netted nine goals, with the majority coming from Bruno Fernandes’ assists.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe 34-year-old’s exploits have prompted constant calls from the fans and even his own teammates for him to stay for one more year. However, Casemiro’s departure at the end of the season is already set in stone, so it’s now time for the midfielder to find himself a new club. Casemiro’s Stats Appearance Goals Assists Premier League 32 9 2 FA Cup 1 0 0 Total 33 9 2 Romano closes the door on Casemiro’s Man Utd stayIn the latest video update posted on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano discussed Casemiro’s future, beginning by confirming the player’s exit at the end of the season.The Italian journalist insists there won’t be a U-turn on the decision, so the former Real Madrid star will become a free agent in June.The transfer market expert reveals that Saudi Pro League clubs have enquired about Casemiro. However, the veteran’s most likely destination will be the United States.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustRomano describes a move to MLS as a ‘strong, concrete, and real’ possibility, while identifying Inter Miami as his main suitor.David Beckham’s franchise is the league’s reigning champions thanks to their star-studded squad, which features a large contingent of South American footballers, and chief among them are Luis Suarez and the iconic Lionel Messi.Why Inter Miami could be the most tempting choice for CasemiroInter Miami parted ways with Sergio Busquets at the end of last year, with the World Cup winner announcing his retirement. Therefore, Casemiro could be a direct replacement for his old Clásico rival.While many would argue that the Brazilian international is still capable of playing at the highest level for a few more years, the financial proposal coming from Miami, combined with an enticing lifestyle, could be too tempting for the player to resist, especially at this late stage of his career.Casemiro would have certainly wanted to win more silverware at Man Utd, but he will leave the club with an FA Cup and a Carabao Cup, while his legendary stint in Madrid had yielded a whopping five Champions League trophies, in addition to three LaLiga titles and other accolades.Therefore, the Brazilian can leave Europe with his head high and very few regrets. Official: Casemiro is #mufc’s Player of the Month for April. pic.twitter.com/pmOYB9tLdQ — utdreport (@utdreport) May 2, 2026
Video: “Honestly, there were times…”: Former Man United star pours heart out on injury hell
Former Manchester United star Paul Pogba is slowly making his way back into football. Post-United Pogba left the club in the summer of 2022 after the expiry of his contract. The World Cup winner with France in 2018 joined Juventus in the summer of 2022, but injury disrupted his return. Controversy struck when he was banned for four years after banned substances were found in his blood, but after appeal, he only had to spend 18 months out of football. Pogba finally joined French side AS Monaco last summer, but once again, his career has been thwarted by injuries. He made his return to the line-up in the autumn, but injury put paid to his return and he has only played five games this season for a total of 57 minutes. The longest he has been on the pitch is 21 minutes in a 1-4 loss to Paris FC. Nonetheless, he is back in action and played the last six minutes of a 2-2 draw with Toulouse last weekend. Thoughts on injury woes In an interview with Ligue 1 Plus (via footmercato.net), Pogba opened up on how tough his recurrent injuries have been to deal with mentally. The midfielder stated, “honestly, there were times when I was like, ‘That’s it, it’s getting on my nerves.’ I do everything, I come, I’m here, and it doesn’t stop, it just keeps going. I was thinking, ‘What more do I have to do to avoid all this?’ And actually, it’s about time and patience. You have to have the patience to keep going and not give up.” Pogba also praised the support group he has around him and claimed, “I was lucky to have people around me, whether it was my family or close friends, who would say to me, ‘What are you talking about?’ When I see the messages, whether on social media or when I arrive at the stadiums, they applaud.” Finally, the 33-year-old revealed that he has only just started his return to action and asserted, “I can’t stop here. I want to give that love and joy back to the people.” “Je ne peux pas m’arrêter là (…) J’ai envie de redonner cet amour et ce plaisir aux gens” ❤️ Paul Pogba par Adil Rami, l’𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗻 𝗲́𝘃𝗲̀𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁. En intégralité 𝗱𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲 𝗮̀ 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗿 𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟵𝗵𝟭𝟱 𝗱𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗟𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝟭+ 👌 pic.twitter.com/JviToTRKAX — L1+ (@ligue1plus) May 1, 2026 Paul Pogba 25/26 season stats Games playedGoalsAssistsMins played 50057 Source: transfermarkt.com Featured image Ed Sykes 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.
“Highly talented player”: European sporting director gives major hint on Sancho’s future
Jadon Sancho’s nightmare time as a Manchester United player is inching ever closer to an end. Horrible time The England winger was chased all summer of 2020 without success, but the club finally got their man in 2021. Sancho has never really performed for Manchester United and has only managed to play 83 times for the Red Devils in five years. He fell out with Erik ten Hag in 2023 and spent the second half of the season on loan at Borussia Dortmund. Sancho was then sent on loan to Chelsea for all of last season, before the Blues paid a fee not to sign him permanently. Also, Aston Villa agreed to take on the winger for this season, but Sancho’s current Manchester United deal is about to expire next month. Summer departure There have been suggestions that Aston Villa may be keen to keep the 26-year-old permanently in the summer. He has never really been a starter for the Villans and, despite poor statistics, has played a squad role for the English side. There have also been reports that RB Leipzig would be willing to offer him an avenue to return to the Bundesliga, where he has previously enjoyed great success. Nonetheless, recent reports seem to suggest that Sancho’s former club Borussia Dortmund are in a strong position to land the player. Comments from Dortmund’s sporting director, Ole Book, have only fuelled such speculation. Speaking to German outlet BILD, Book claimed, “we all know that Jadon Sancho is a good, highly talented player who left a lasting impression here in Dortmund – with his technical skills and his creativity.” One potential hiccup for the Germans is that Sancho would need to drastically reduce his current salary were he to return to the Westfalenstadion. Jadon Sancho stats 25/26 Games playedGoalsAssists Mins played 35131573 Source: transfermarkt.com Featured image Eddie Keogh 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.
“Definitely” – Whitwell confirms Man Utd are after ‘out of this world’ midfielder who’s available on cut price

Manchester United are still keeping tabs on Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who should be available for an affordable price this summer.The Red Devils must sign at least two new midfielders in the summer to make up for Casemiro’s departure and the potential sale of Manuel Ugarte.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYDuring his appearance on the Strettford Paddock, the Athletic journalist Laurie Whitwell provided a round-up on INEOS’ eventful midfield search.Man Utd tracking a flurry of midfieldersThe Man Utd insider insisted that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co. are in mind to meet Nottingham Forest’s reported £125 million asking price for Elliot Anderson.Sandro Tonali represents another pursuit that Man Utd are likely to abandon due to Newcastle’s hefty valuation. Meanwhile, Brighton are reportedly willing to drop Carlos Baleba’s asking price from last season’s £100 million to £75 million, but the Red Devils still consider it excessive, as they value the Cameroonian at around £50 million.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustTherefore, Whitwell confirmed that MUFC are still monitoring the likes of West Ham’s Matheus Fernandes, Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, and Wolves’ Joao Gomes, who represent cost-effective alternatives.Moreover, the journalist reveals that Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchaouemi isn’t the only midfielder from outside of the Premier League that United are following, as Ederson ‘definitely’ remains a target for the club.Whitwell reveals that Man Utd were repelled by Atalanta’s asking price last summer. However, the Brazilian’s contract will expire in June 2027, which could force the Serie A club to sell him on a significant discount. 🚨🗣️ @lauriewhitwell on if Manchester United are looking at any midfielders outside of the Premier League besides Tchouameni: “There is Ederson at Atalanta. […] He was one that was featured prominently last summer – too much money being asked for from Atalanta. His contract… pic.twitter.com/prhEZ4V6fI — UtdXclusive (@UtdXclusive) May 1, 2026Why Ederson could be a major coup for Man UnitedOver the last four seasons, Ederson has cemented himself as one of the most complete midfielders in the Italian top flight, combining strength, technique, and great tactical awareness. Former England manager Fabio Capello once hailed him as an ‘out of this world’ player. Fabio Capello has praised Atalanta midfielder Ederson in today’s Gazzetta dello Sport: “He is out of this world for his ability to combine running, physicality, technique and intelligence”. pic.twitter.com/qXkIfZOUiO — Atalanta BC News (@AtalantaBC_News) December 7, 2024The Atalanta stalwart has often operated as a box-to-box midfielder during his time in Bergamo, but his attributes also allow him to interpret the role of a holding midfielder. Therefore, Ederson could be the ideal heir to Casemiro.However, Man Utd must act swiftly and decisively if they wish to lure the Brazilian to Old Trafford this summer. After all, Ederson has reportedly agreed terms with Atletico Madrid already.The Atalanta stalwart has often operated as a box-to-box midfielder during his time in Bergamo, but his attributes also allow him to interpret the role of a holding midfielder. Therefore, Ederson could be the ideal heir to Casemiro.Transfermarkt estimates the player’s value at €40 million (or £34.5m), but it remains to be seen if the stubborn Atalanta will hold out for a larger fee.
The Times: Aston Villa wantaway now being discussed by Man Utd chiefs as they make plans to ‘strengthen’

Manchester United have added Morgan Rogers to their shortlist as they draw up plans to ‘strengthen’ their attack this summer, according to The Times.United wouldn’t be alone in their potential pursuit, though, as the Aston Villa starlet is being monitored by a host of suitors in the lead-up to the transfer window.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYMorgan Rogers: The state of playIt’s thought Rogers will look to leave Villa Park to embark on a new venture in the coming months, irrespective of whether the side qualifies for the Champions League.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustHe featured last night but was unable to have a notable impact during Villa’s first-leg Europa League semi-final away to Nottingham Forest.However, he has overseen a stellar campaign thus far, having returned 12 goals and nine assists in 50 appearances across all competitions. Morgan Rogers pulling the strings 🧵#UEL | @AVFCOfficial pic.twitter.com/ioKZb7ZHiK — UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) April 21, 2026United are said to admire the 23-year-old’s versatility, with Rogers able to ‘slot into the left-wing position’ if he isn’t utilised in his usual role in midfield.INEOS targeting Yan Diomande as well as RogersThe England international isn’t the only forward United are considering, either, as Yan Diomande remains a firm option that INEOS could move for. Swiftly done, Yan Diomande. The @RexonaNG Move of the Day. 💫🇨🇮#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/wGw0t6g75S — CAF Online (@CAF_Online) January 7, 2026Diomande, 19, has notched 13 goals and nine assists in 33 appearances across the Bundesliga and the DFB Cup.RB Leipzig will do their utmost to keep hold of the coveted teenager, especially given they’ve only had him in the ranks since last July, but they would reportedly consider facilitating his exit if they can secure a lucrative transfer fee in return.Read more: Journo — Man Utd aware that if they ignite pursuit of £70m PL star this summer, he would ‘only want them’
‘Hopeful…’: Michael Carrick confirms team news for LFC clash amid uncertainty over three Reds
Michael Carrick has provided his team news for the visit of Liverpool on Sunday afternoon (3.30pm kick-off).Manchester United host their arch-rivals at Old Trafford in hopes of overseeing their first league double over the Merseyside outfit in 10 years.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYCarrick’s squad update pre-LFCIn regard to the players who are likely to feature, Carrick is ‘hopeful’ that Matheus Cunha will return from his brief injury setback in time to play. Michael Carrick says Matthijs de Ligt remains out, but Matheus Cunha could play v Liverpool. “Matheus has done a little bit of work, we’re not sure, hopeful.” #MUFC — Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) May 1, 2026He has trained this week after missing the win over Brenftord with a groin problem, which he sustained during United’s clash with Chelsea week prior.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe Brazilian scored the only goal of the contest at Stamford Bridge, so he will be chomping at the bit to get back on the turf and add to his tally before his maiden campaign draws to a close later this month. Appearances Goals Assists 30 8 4 Cunha’s Premier League record for United thus farElsewhere, Carrick expects Shaw to be available following his early withdrawal on Monday night.The full-back is aiming to extend his stellar feat of starting every single Premier League fixture this term, but his involvement was cast into doubt when he required treatment for an issue last time out, leading to him being replaced by Leny Yoro in the 73rd minute.Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined, as he has been since the end of November. Carrick confirms Matheus Cunha should be fine for Liverpool game. Suggested Shaw should be fit, too. De Ligt obviously still out and Martinez suspended. #mufc — Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) May 1, 2026Liverpool team newsAs for the travelling side, Arne Slot will be without Mohamed Salah, who pulled up with a hamstring injury last weekend. “We expect him to be back in the final parts of the season but not for Sunday” ❌ Arne Slot confirms Mo Salah won’t be available for the fixture against Manchester United. pic.twitter.com/Xw8tz3r8ts — Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 1, 2026It means that the winger’s final appearance for Liverpool against United was the Reds’ 2-1 triumph at Anfield back in October 2025.Alisson Becker, Conor Bradley, Hugo Ekitike, Wataru Endo, Milos Kerkez and Giorgi Mamardashvilli will also be absent due to injuries.[morestories latest










