After watching the Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich Champions League semi-final clash, one thing was clear: you cannot have proper attacking football with basic wingers. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on one side, Michael Olise on the other, the two lit up that match. They were the true definition of wingers willing to take on their markers while offering pace, flair, and end product all at once. It is frustrating, then, that Manchester United could have landed Olise in 2024, but he chose Bayern instead. Francisco Conceicao links INEOS, however, now have an opportunity to sign such a winger if links to Juventus’ Francisco Conceicao bear fruit. Conceicao has caught the Red Devils’ interest, with his performances hinting he could be every bit as dangerous as Kvaratskhelia and Olise were on Tuesday night. He is not a prolific goalscorer yet, but watching him trouble defenders, it seems only a matter of time before his numbers back up his play. However, just as United were bracing for a battle with Liverpool for his services, a transfer message has arrived. Conceicao decides on Premier League switch As per Tutto Sport, while flattered by Premier League interest, the message is clear: he is not leaving Turin. The Italian outlet suggests the Portuguese winger would have commanded a significant pay rise on his €4 million net salary were he to move to England, but as the report notes, “not now, because Conceicao only has Juve in mind.” It is a shame the young winger is not tempted by a move to the Premier League, but the Manchester Reds should be okay without him. Not a priority signing Conceicao is predominantly a right winger, and United are already well stocked there with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo. Shea Lacey is also pushing for the same role. Missing out on Conceicao, therefore, need not be so frustrating. That said, the Red Devils have another Serie A dribbling demon in Rafael Leao on their radar, and he could prove a game-changing signing if INEOS can get their hands on him. He is precisely the natural left winger this team is craving. Featured image Paulo Bruno 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.
Attacking dynamo responds to United interest with clear transfer message to Ineos over summer switch – report
Picture: United’s new away kit is leaked, retro design has fans calling it an “absolute beauty”
Manchester United’s away kit for the 2026/27 season has been leaked online as the club opts for a retro style on their travels next year. Adidas strike again The relationship between Manchester United and Adidas stretches back to the 1980s – and it is this era from which the German sportswear giant has taken inspiration. Footy Headlines, an excellent source for inside scoops on kits, has found two pictures of the new shirt that is due to be released this summer. A royal blue dominates as the “primary colour”, which is “combined with red and white applications throughout.” The report states that the theme reflects famous Manchester United kits from the 1980s, in particular those “from 1985 to 1990 under Adidas and Sharp, known for their bold hues and simple designs.” ✅ 𝙊𝙁𝙁𝙄𝘾𝙄𝘼𝙇: Manchester United’s 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐘 kit for the 2026/27 season. 👕🥶 Do you like it Reds? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/y7spVfX55p — GIDEON MUFC (@GBUnitedx) April 29, 2026 While a manufacturer will always be slightly constrained by tradition when it comes to home kits, an away jersey offers the chance for invention and risk – which has produced some of the most iconic ‘cult classic‘ kits in history. Fans respond well The response among fans on social media to the leaked pictures was strong, with many expressing their excitement to see it in action once Manchester United return to Europe. As relayed by Sport Bible, one supporter claimed the royal blue would “hit the hardest during Champions League games”, and another praised it as “an absolute beauty”. A third fan predicted it would look “even more elite with white shorts”, while a fourth simply stated Adidas “never fail”. The official release of the home and away kits is expected to come in late July ahead of the start of the new campaign, which will commence on the weekend of August 22. A previous report by The Peoples Person has covered the leak of the home kit here. Michael Carrick‘s men are next in action on Sunday afternoon in a grudge match with bitter rivals Liverpool. Three points at Old Trafford will likely be enough to secure a top five finish – and confirm fans will get to see the royal blue for big away days on the continent next season. 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 have no desire to offload 28-yo warrior despite interest from LaLiga giants – report
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez is currently serving a three-match suspension after receiving a controversial red card against Leeds United earlier this month. The Red Devils ultimately lost the game 2-1. Michael Carrick subsequently had a selection dilemma against Chelsea, with Harry Maguire also suspended for the game and Leny Yoro ruled out due to a late injury. The Englishman, however, deployed Noussair Mazraoui alongside Ayden Heaven at centre-back, and came away from Stamford Bridge with a hard-fought 1-0 win. United have since extended their winning run, picking up all three points at home against Brentford. The Red Devils are third in the Premier League table after 34 games, and next face bitter rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford this weekend. A win could all but confirm United’s participation in next season’s Champions League, but Carrick’s side will have to do it without Martinez, who remains suspended. The Argentine has been integral to the team’s success when fit, but has also suffered with injury problems since his arrival at the Theatre of Dreams. Martinez’s injury troubles Martinez followed Erik ten Hag to United from Ajax in the summer of 2022 and soon cemented his place in the starting XI. Unfortunately, the player suffered a metatarsal fracture towards the end of the season, missing 14 games for club and country. Since then, the Argentine has struggled with injuries that have kept him out for varying periods of time. However, Martinez has also impressed with his ball-playing ability, courage, and defensive acumen when fit, making him a key member of the starting XI. Following Ten Hag’s departure in November 2024, the 28 year old slotted seamlessly into Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system. Just as he was proving to be a vital cog for the Portuguese head coach, however, Martinez ruptured his ACL and spent almost 10 months on the treatment table. Lisandro Martinez: Injury History since joining United SeasonInjury TypeStart DateEnd DateDurationTeamMatches Missed 25/26Calf injury23/02/202608/04/202645 daysManchester United5 24/25Cruciate ligament injury03/02/202521/11/2025292 daysManchester United35 24/25Back problems23/11/202425/11/20243 daysManchester United1 23/24Calf strain02/04/202401/05/202430 daysManchester United6 23/24Knee injury04/02/202429/03/202455 daysManchester United / Argentina9 23/24Foot injury21/09/202304/01/2024106 daysManchester United / Argentina26 22/23Metatarsal fracture14/04/202330/06/202378 daysManchester United / Argentina14 Source: Transfermarkt. Martinez was vital to the team’s resurgence under caretaker manager Carrick before he picked up a calf injury in February that kept him out for five games. He returned to action against Leeds United, but was involved in a hair-pulling incident that saw him receive his marching orders. The Argentine’s contract expires at the end of next season, further adding to speculation regarding his future. An update on the situation has now emerged. United not considering Martinez exit According to Football Insider, United are not considering Martinez’s departure this summer. The report states: “Manchester United are determined to keep hold of centre-back Lisandro Martinez this summer despite him nearing the end of his contract, sources have told Football Insider.” “The 28-year-old has been linked with a potential move to Barcelona in recent months, but sources have indicated that United are ready to resist any moves for him this summer and are not willing to entertain offers.” The report adds that United are already planning for the summer but have no desire to offload one of the key pieces of their backline. Final Thoughts Martinez is a fan favourite for his passion, aggressive defending, and ability to play from the back. However, the Butcher’s fitness remains a concern and with Matthijs de Ligt also struggling with a back injury, United could be tempted to consider reinforcements this summer. Lisandro Martinez’s game by numbers vs. Leeds United: 100% aerial duels won100% ground duels won86 touches 84% pass accuracy 8 clearances 7 passes into the final third6 recoveries 4 headed clearances 3 interceptions 0 fouls So good to have him back. 👏 pic.twitter.com/7e9DVZN2yR — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) January 4, 2026 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 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.
“I am determined to…”: Kobbie Mainoo outlines new goal after extending United stay until 2031
Kobbie Mainoo has signed a long-term contract with Manchester United that will keep him at Old Trafford until 2031, the club have announced. The English midfielder’s previous contract was due to expire at the end of next season and his future has been hanging in the balance for some time. Mainoo rose through the ranks at Old Trafford before exploding onto the scene under former manager Erik ten Hag. If the Englishman’s rise under the Dutchman was meteoric, his lack of game time under Ten Hag’s successor Ruben Amorim was equally alarming. Having started the FA Cup final win over Manchester City and the Euro 2024 final against Spain, Mainoo was relegated to a bench role under the Portuguese head coach. The Englishman was pushed to the brink of an exit in January this year, before caretaker manager Michael Carrick’s arrival handed him a lifeline. The 21 year old grabbed that opportunity with both hands and has been in explosive form so far. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person suggested that the player was close to signing a renewal, and a confirmation has now arrived. Living the dream After committing his future to the Theatre of Dreams, Kobbie spoke fondly about United. He said: “Manchester United has always been my home; this special club means everything to my family. I have grown up seeing the impact that our club has on our city, and I relish the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt.” “From The Cliff, to Littleton Road, to Carrington and ultimately Old Trafford, the journey so far has been incredible. I have the privilege of living my dream every single day, with the same relentless desire to succeed here as when I joined my first training session at the age of six.” “We can all feel the momentum building inside the club. I am determined to step up and play my role in helping Manchester United to regularly fight for major trophies in the years ahead.” United’s Director of Football, Jason Wilcox, was full of praise for the young midfielder, adding: “Kobbie is one of the most naturally gifted young footballers in the world.” “His technical ability, dedicated professionalism and humble personality make him the perfect role model for our young players and a true credit to our outstanding Academy system.” “We are delighted that Kobbie has extended his stay here and have full confidence that he will develop into one of the best players in the world, ready to play a pivotal role in a Manchester United team challenging for the biggest honours.” Future of United’s midfield? Mainoo has started every game under Carrick so far except the defeat to Leeds United, which he missed due to injury. The Englishman’s poise, composure, and ability on the ball have already earned him widespread acclaim. Mainoo has also added steel to his character this year, as evident in the last two victories against Chelsea and Brentford. Recent reports have suggested that the youngster is spending a lot of time with the outgoing Casemiro in training to hone his skills. Kobbie Mainoo Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League2412-21-1,294′ EFL Cup11-1–90′ FA Cup11–1-62′ Total2614-32-1,446′ Source: Transfermarkt. Final Thoughts Mainoo’s decision to renew with United will be a huge boost to the club’s plans ahead of the summer. The Red Devils now have the huge task of signing his ideal partner in midfield, and must ensure they get it right this year. 👀 Manchester United’s win %’s in the Premier League this season: With Kobbie Mainoo in the starting XI – 75%Without Kobbie Mainoo in the starting XI – 36%#MUFC pic.twitter.com/Qm0IAt3wp9 — WhoScored (@WhoScored) April 28, 2026 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 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.
Former United captain Ashley Young announces retirement from professional football
Former Manchester United star Ashley Young has announced that he will retire from professional football following the final game of the Championship season. Young’s current team Ipswich, who are managed by former Manchester United coach Kieran McKenna, can seal a return to the Premier League with victory against Queens Park Rangers on Saturday. The jubilant celebrations that will follow promotion would be a fitting send-off for the former Manchester United captain and Premier League legend. An incredible career Young achieved exceptional success throughout his career, initially winning the PFA Young Player of the Year award in 2009. That success attracted the interest of Sir Alex Ferguson, who brought him to Old Trafford in a £17 million deal. Young went on to make 261 appearances for Manchester United across an eight-and-a-half-year spell, eventually earning the honour of captaining the team. During his time at Old Trafford, Young won five major trophies, including the Premier League title in 2013 and the Europa League trophy in 2017. Since leaving United, Young has turned out for Inter Milan, Aston Villa, Everton and Ipswich, proving to be one of the most durable, hard-working players in recent times. Hanging up his boots After a 22-year run, the former England international has now made the difficult decision to call time on his remarkable career. Writing on Instagram, Young said, “From Sefton Road to Vicarage Road to Villa Park to Wembley to Old Trafford to San Siro back to Villa Park to Goodison Park and finally to Portman Road.” “It’s been some journey that I only dreamt of as a boy! But with this dream there has to be an ending and Saturday might be the last game of my professional career. To be continued….” Tributes began to pour in instantly, with ex-Manchester United shot-stopper David De Gea simply commenting, “What a career.” The official England account was quick to recognise the impact Young made in his 39 caps, writing, “Congratulations on a fantastic career!” Here’s hoping Young can help bolster his teammates to a victory on Saturday, ensuring the legendary star gets the send-off he deserves. 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 Mike Walsh Mike Walsh is an experienced freelance journalist who has written about a variety of topics over multiple years. He is very happy to finally be writing about the Red Devils, especially now that his favourite player, Michael Carrick, is in charge of the team.
High-flying young United star launches his own clothing brand – report
Manchester United’s promising young centre-back Ayden Heaven is set to venture beyond the footballing world by launching his own clothing brand. The 19-year-old central defender, who joined Manchester United from rivals Arsenal in January 2025, has made a stellar start to his Red Devils career. He has featured for the club an impressive sixteen times already this season, starting the last two games and delivering commanding performances in each of them. A bright future ahead of him Heaven is regarded as a future star, with all the attributes required to be an exceptional centre-back in the modern game. His career has progressed rapidly since his move to Old Trafford, as he has appeared in over twenty matches and scarcely put a foot wrong in any of them. With injuries and suspensions wreaking havoc on United’s back line, Heaven could be in line for a start in what would undoubtedly be the biggest game of his career: the derby match against Liverpool on Sunday. Such an opportunity would present the England Under-20 international with another chance to impress the Manchester United faithful and showcase his skills. An opportunity away from the pitch Heaven is planning to be successful off the pitch as well, having just applied to trademark his name under a range of merchandise. The trademark covers a range of clothing, including football shirts, gymwear, and training pants. Moreover, the ex-Arsenal star will also have the option to release fragrances as well as nutritional food and drink products in the future. Heaven follows in the footsteps of former Red Devils Rio Ferdinand and Jesse Lingard, who each launched their own clothing brands to differing degrees of success. Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Mike Walsh Mike Walsh is an experienced freelance journalist who has written about a variety of topics over multiple years. He is very happy to finally be writing about the Red Devils, especially now that his favourite player, Michael Carrick, is in charge of the team.
PL rivals exit race for 19-yo United target with 16 g/a this season, deal possible for £43m – report
Manchester United have received some good news in their pursuit of FC Koln star Said El Mala. The Red Devils have been on a roll under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, who took charge as former head coach Ruben Amorim’s temporary replacement in January. The Englishman has overseen a spectacular return to form, with the team winning nine of the 13 games under him. United are now third in the Premier League table, and qualification for next season’s Champions League is within reach. The Red Devils are expected to further improve the squad over the summer, when the focus will be on signing an able replacement for the outgoing Casemiro. However, the English giants could also be tempted to upgrade the attack, despite investing heavily in their frontline at the start of this season. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person has named El Mala among the options currently being pursued by the Old Trafford hierarchy. United’s desire for more firepower United parted ways with Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Antony last summer, and currently lack width in their attack. Ideally, INEOS would prefer to sign a replacement for Rashford, who is on a season-long loan to Barcelona but has perhaps already played his last game for the Red Devils. The English giants need a fast and skilful winger who can stretch the defence from the left wing, just like Amad has done on the opposite flank. El Mala has already shown that he could be a fantastic option for the job. The German winger has been in red-hot form this season for Koln, scoring 11 goals and setting up five more in 33 appearances across all competitions. Said El Mala Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Bundesliga31171153-1,716′ DFB-Pokal21–1-80′ Total33181154-1,796′ Source: Transfermarkt. The 19 year old fits United’s recent youth-centric transfer policy, although recent reports suggest that Brighton & Hove Albion have already reached an agreement with the player’s camp. The Seagulls have reportedly offered €35 million for El Mala as they look to secure his signature this summer. An update on the saga has now emerged that will please the Red Devils. Koln set El Mala price tag According to Sky Sports Germany, Koln has rejected Brighton’s €35 million offer for their prized asset. The report states: “The latest million-euro bid has been rejected: 1. FC Köln has turned down an offer of 35 million euros from Brighton & Hove Albion for attacking gem Said El Mala.” “According to Sky Sport, 1. FC Köln considers the offer insufficient and has now set the asking price for the 19-year-old at €50 million – a sum that would set a new club record.” The report goes on to state that the Seagulls have withdrawn from the race for the time being, adding: “For weeks, Brighton were the most serious suitors. However, the Cologne officials remained cautious – with the result that the Premier League club has withdrawn from the race for the time being.” “At 1. FC Köln themselves, they are putting on a show of calm. The top scorer’s contract runs until 2030, and there is no release clause.” Final Thoughts El Mala represents a raw talent who could be polished into a world-class player with the right nurture and guidance. The German could also be a cheaper alternative to Yan Diomande, who is on United’s wish list but could cost a small fortune. Feature image Alexander Hassenstein 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.
“Must have that mentality”: United’s £55m dynamo throws down the gauntlet to Carrick’s men for next season
Manchester United’s Mason Mount has endured another frustrating season at Old Trafford. Difficult United career Mount signed for the club from Chelsea in the summer of 2023 for the princely sum of £55 million. Despite approaching the end of his third season, his time in Manchester has been plagued by injury, and he has played just 69 times for the club. He was one of the few players in the squad who prospered under Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim, but has failed to start a game since Boxing Day owing to injury issues. Ambitious goal The England international spoke to the BBC ahead of United’s massive home match versus Liverpool on Sunday. Speaking on his ambitions at Old Trafford, he claimed, “I’ve won the Champions League already, so I have a goal of winning the Premier League,” he said. “Can we do that? Yes, I think we can. It may seem a little bit far away, but you must have that mentality to really push yourself as a group.” He claimed that the evidence for his optimism has been in the performances the side have managed against the biggest and best sides in the league, such as Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal. Mount then challenged the team to be more consistent in the league and to replicate that form in the Champions League next season. He added, “hopefully, I will be a massive part of that moving forward next season. It’s a goal: I want to win the Premier League.” Commenting on his time at the club so far, he said, “I love being a part of a massive club. It’s my third season and it’s flown. I’m a bit older now and I’ve got a bit more experience. There are going to be a lot more games next season. Being a part of getting this club back to the top, where it deserves to be, is super special.” Michael Carrick effect The United interim manager, Michael Carrick, has helped turn around United’s season, with the club on the cusp of Champions League qualification for next season. It is still unclear whether or not he will get the job permanently, but he is still clearly very popular with the players. Elaborating on Carrick’s time at the club so far, Mount said, “he’s been brilliant for me. As a midfielder, I looked up to him when he played. He was an absolute maestro which is something I’ve always looked to do.” He paid further compliments to the manager by stating, “he’s very level-headed. Very calm, very knowledgeable about the game. He knows what he wants going into games. He will do his analysis on the opposition and talk us through it on the pitch.” Mount also heaped praise on one of Carrick’s assistants, Steve Holland. The England international has previous experience with Holland, having worked alongside him with the Three Lions. He added, “he’s got such a football brain. If he sees something, he’ll know what to say, and he’s not afraid to say it. In either the first or second game after they took charge, he was taking a team talk and saying: ‘Look we’re going to win – we’re going to win this game.’ That was the confidence from day one.” Mason Mount 25/26 season stats Games playedGoalsAssistsMins played 2231932 Source: transfermarkt.com Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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.
United in hot pursuit of unstoppable 17-yo winger who has “potential to be a truly great footballer” – report
Manchester United have set their sights on FC Porto’s latest sensation, Oskar Pietuszewski. It is no secret that United intend to sign a left winger in the summer. Morgan Rogers has emerged as one of the club’s priority targets, with Aston Villa reportedly willing to sanction an £80 million exit. Rogers is entering his peak years and would be expected to make an immediate impact at United should he move to Old Trafford, similar to Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. A report in Portugal suggests that the Red Devils are also keeping an eye on the 17-year-old winger, who could be more of a prospect for the future. Manchester United interested in Oskar Pietuszewski According to Portuguese newspaper Record (via Sport Witness), Manchester United are among a host of clubs tracking Oskar Pietuszewski. The rapid winger, who only moved to Porto from Polish outfit Jagiellonia Białystok in January, has become an instant hit in Portugal, attracting the attention of United, Newcastle United, Liverpool and Manchester City. Pietuszewski has three goals and four assists to his name in 15 appearances for the Dragons. More impressively, the Polish wonderkid has raised eyebrows with his fearless dribbling. Jagiellonia head coach Adrian Siemieniec recently lauded Pietuszewski, stating: “To be honest, I admire this boy because he has the potential to be a truly great footballer and is already asserting himself with league and European competitions.” Porto’s plan to keep hold of Oskar Pietuszewski Porto are well aware of the jewel they have on their hands and are already planning to tie him down to a new contract. Pietuszewski initially signed a three-year deal with the Portuguese giants. Now, Record claim that Porto are preparing to extend his contract until June 2031 and increase his current €60m (£52m) release clause. He was signed for just €10m. United or any other suitor would have to act decisively to have any chance of signing Pietuszewski this summer. Christopher Vivell-led United recruitment team would be wise to let Pietuszewski develop further at Porto and keep monitoring him before deciding to spend a significant figure on him. For the time being, the focus should be on bringing in someone like Rogers. Featured image Mateusz Slodkowski 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 target 6’5 defensive beast as major upgrade on Ten Hag flop, talks underway over £48m switch – report
Manchester United have reportedly emerged as surprise contenders to sign Gregor Kobel, but they will have to fend off interest from two Premier League rivals to secure the Borussia Dortmund shot-stopper’s signature. A New Shot Stopper Despite United’s main focus this summer being a comprehensive overhaul of the midfield, a new goalkeeper is also on the agenda to provide support to Senne Lammens. The 23-year-old Belgian has proven to be a revelatory signing after arriving from Royal Antwerp for an initial £18.1 million on deadline day last summer. The erratic performances of both Andre Onana, who is currently on loan at Turkish side Trabzonspor, and Altay Bayindir feel like a lifetime ago after a superb debut campaign by the new No.1. Both goalkeepers are expected to leave in the summer, with INEOS having no wish to see Onana return and Bayindir understood to have agreed personal terms over his own return to Türkiye with Besiktas. This makes securing a No.2 an unexpectedly important priority, given that the only other option at Old Trafford would be veteran Tom Heaton, who is more of a coach at this late stage of his career than a player. United hold talks In a surprise twist, Kobel – Dortmund’s 28-year-old starter – is a leading target for the Red Devils, according to Fussball Daten. The German outlet reveals United have held “exploratory talks” with the Switzerland international’s camp as sources claim Die Schwarzgelben “demand a fixed sum in the range of 50 to 55 million euros” (£43-48m). Dortmund boss Niko Kovac is said to consider Kobel “unsellable” due to the 6’5″ giant’s quality on the pitch and his leadership in the dressing room off it. But this unique profile, a towering goalkeeper with a wealth of experience and outstanding attitude, makes the Zurich native an ideal candidate for the Premier League. Both Chelsea and Newcastle United are admirers, with the Magpies having also held initial talks over a summer swoop. There is interest from unnamed Serie A sides as well. Final Thoughts While Kobel is an excellent goalkeeper who has operated at the highest levels of European football for many years now, he is an odd choice to target as a ‘No.2’ to a younger No.1. A fee as high as £48m and a wage packet as high as “12 to 14 million euros per year” do not align with a signing intended to play a supporting role, rather than being the main man himself. United struck gold with Lammens last year; they do not need to keep foraging in a premium market to find a complementary partner for him at the Theatre of Dreams, even if Kobel would be an amazing upgrade on Dumb and Dumber heading through the exit door this summer. 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.
