It turned out to be a bittersweet season at Old Trafford, with Manchester United’s impressive third-place finish not without an asterisk given the disastrous early exits in the domestic cup competitions and the lack of European football. However, one player who made the most of the extra breaks in the schedule was full-back Luke Shaw, who joined only a handful of players in starting every league game in a single campaign for United. This achievement is even more impressive given the defender’s injury record. When fit and firing, Shaw is undoubtedly one of the best left-backs in the division, and his impressive season under both Ruben Amorim and Michael Carrick saw him slot in seamlessly at centre-back at times as well. Surprise World Cup omission With all that in mind, Shaw looked a strong favourite to earn a call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad this summer. However, the German did not quite see it that way and chose to leave the United man at home, favouring others with less experience and quality than Shaw but perhaps more reliability to get through the tournament unscathed. Ironically, one of the players called up instead of Shaw, Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento, has had to withdraw from the squad through injury before England have even kicked a ball in the U.S. Tuchel’s prerogative to pick a replacement would surely have led him to Shaw, but instead the former Chelsea head coach has plumped for Blues defender Trevoh Chalobah, a decision that has bemused a certain England and United legend. Wayne Rooney admitted he was baffled by Tuchel’s omission of Shaw, a player he named as “the most improved” in the United squad, after his reliability over the course of the season. “It’s a bit strange. I would have liked to have seen Luke Shaw. And then Djed Spence maybe being cover for Reece James and Luke Shaw come in,” said Rooney on his BBC podcast (via Metro). United’s all-time leading goal scorer did caveat the decision with the fact Chalobah may have been on a standby list that Shaw was not, but given the options available to Tuchel, it does feel like the United man would have added something to the group. “I’m sure Thomas Tuchel has kept contact with players to stay available and I’m sure he [Chalobah] was one of those who was available,” he added. England’s loss is United’s gain Whilst it is disappointing for Shaw to be left out, Carrick will certainly be using the situation to his advantage, with both him and Harry Maguire in line for a pre-season that could prove crucial when the Premier League campaign gets underway. With the bumper edition of the World Cup not concluding until 19 July, players will be coming back to Carrington in stages depending on how far their respective nations go in the competition. The early games in the Premier League may see under-strength or undercooked starting XIs, and having as many key players available during that period could be pivotal in getting off to a good start. Shaw will be expected to be at it right from the off and will hope to enjoy another fruitful campaign, finally put his dreadful injury woes behind him, and finish his career strong at the Theatre of Dreams with or without international football. 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 Conner Botterill Conner Botterill has been with The Peoples Person for three years. A lifelong red with degrees in Sport and Journalism and Philosophy and Psychology through the Open University. His favourite match attended was the unforgettable night in Paris in 2019 under the guidance of one of his idols, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Conner still believes he has a chance of making United’s first team through his 5-a-side career.
“It’s a bit strange”: Rooney left baffled by Tuchel’s decision about United wide-man
Big part of the game: Carrick tells United fans what to expect from his side next season
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick is preparing for his first full season in charge after overseeing a blockbuster start to his Old Trafford tenure. The Englishman arrived at the Theatre of Dreams in January to take over a team that had struggled to secure results under former head coach Ruben Amorim. Carrick abandoned the Portuguese’s controversial 3-4-3 system and implemented his 4-2-3-1 formation. The Red Devils subsequently went on a dazzling run, winning 12 of their 17 games under the Englishman and securing third place in the Premier League table. MIchael Carrick Managerial Career Stats TeamFromToGames PlayedGames WonGames DrawnGames LostWin % Manchester United (caretaker)21 November 20212 December 2021321066.7 Middlesbrough24 October 20224 June 202513663244946.3 Manchester United13 January 2026present17123270.6 Total15677285149.4 Source: Wikipedia. The former midfielder was initially appointed on a caretaker basis, but the team’s form under his tutelage prompted INEOS to hand him the full-time job last month. With United set to compete in the Champions League, Carrick is now preparing to upgrade his squad over the summer. The Englishman recently sat down for a chat where he discussed his Old Trafford tenure and how he expects his team to play. The secret to breaking down low blocks Speaking to journalist Andy Mitten for The Athletic, Carrick explained his approach against sides that defend deep. He said: “There are different ways of scoring goals, different ways of playing in certain games. “Our best teams came up against teams defending in a lot of numbers. More recently, teams have won the league in the last few years and found it hard to score against low blocks or whatever.” When asked what the solution was to the problem, he added: “Potent players in certain positions, different ideas and a lot of it’s mentality. About being positive, going for it and looking for the goal with the fans behind you.” “Looking to be quite aggressive in a football sense and always looking for the solution and what can happen instead of worrying about what the problem is. I think there’s a big difference in your mind of how you approach that.” How Carrick wants United to play Carrick also touched on how football has changed since he retired, with the emphasis now more on analysis and data. While he acknowledges the need for the technological advances, the Englishman still believes that there is a need to allow players to express themselves. He said: “There are more details in the game now. There was a lot more individual problem-solving before. The game went almost too far, where there were too many answers given and it became a bit sterile. Like ‘coach, coach, coach’, too detailed and taking that freedom and that expression away from players. That’s just my opinion.” “You need a structure, responsibilities, principles, discipline — of course you do — but giving that freedom for expression to then go and do what you’re good at, I think that’s a big part of the game.” Final Thoughts Since arriving at Old Trafford, Carrick has gifted United fans with an exciting brand of football reminiscent of the good old days. Should INEOS manage to add the right players to his squad this summer, the Red Devils could be even stronger next season. Featured image Steve Bardens 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.
Exiled United star holds the key for United as they look to sign “dangerous” World Cup hero – report
Manchester United appear to have changed their transfer priorities yet again. It was initially reported that, following Patrick Dorgu’s excellent form under Michael Carrick, the Red Devils would opt to strengthen at left-back instead of left wing. However, following their failure to land Nathaniel Brown from Eintracht Frankfurt and Newcastle’s determination to hold on to Lewis Hall, United have resumed their search for a left winger. West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville has emerged as a concrete target, with the Dutchman setting the World Cup stage alight with his performance against Japan recently. Crysencio Summerville identified as a wide option Despite the Hammers’ relegation, the 24-year-old emerged with his reputation enhanced as he scored seven times while registering five assists. The London side are demanding as much as £50 million to part ways with the ex-Leeds ace, with United unlikely to pay as much. However, according to The Telegraph, any move for the versatile attacker depends on INEOS’ ability to shift Marcus Rashford on a permanent basis. Barcelona have stopped short of triggering his £26 million buy option, and the co-owners are unlikely to sanction another loan. Marcus Rashford’s future up in the air Bayern Munich do not want to pay the Mancunian’s enormous wages, while the 20-time English league champions remain keen not to sell their academy graduate to a direct rival. There is interest from Turkiye, but whether Galatasaray can convince the England international to join them remains to be seen. Marcus Rashford is set to earn £325,000 a week following United’s return to the Champions League and INEOS are desperate to get his wages off the books. Coupled with the fact that his sale will count as pure profit, any deal for a forward like Summerville or even Morgan Rogers depends on Rashford’s future. If Marcus Rashford leaves permanently, Crysencio Summerville will arrive “But the prospects of moving for a winger such as Summerville or a versatile forward such as Rogers, who can play out wide and centrally, are intertwined with Rashford’s future at Old Trafford. “It is thought United will only entertain offers to sign Rashford permanently this summer after loaning him to Barcelona last season. “But United will need to get the England forward – whose wages have jumped back up to about £325,000 a week following the club’s return to the Champions League – off the books if they are to strengthen in the wide forward position during this window.” Summerville can play all across the frontline and even up top if needed, and the “dangerous” ace would be an astute signing. But the ball seems to be in Rashford’s court as of now. Who knows? A wonderful World Cup might reignite interest in the England international and United could potentially bank a lot more if a bidding war ensues. Feature 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 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’s failed hijack of CL juggernaut’s big-money move for 25-yo World Cup magician exposed – report
Manchester United failed in a late attempt to hijack Bayern Munich’s move to sign Ismael Saibari, according to a new report. Moroccan Magician Saibari is a versatile attacker, capable of playing across the frontline or as a No.10, thanks to his high level of technical ability and strong work rate both in and out of possession. The 25-year-old wizard has just won his third consecutive Eredivisie title with PSV Eindhoven, contributing 15 goals and five assists in 27 appearances last season. Saibari is currently at the World Cup, representing Morocco alongside United full-back Noussair Mazraoui and wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi, who has many admirers at Old Trafford. He has already made an impact in the curtain-raiser against Brazil, scoring with a superb chipped finish over an unsuspecting Alisson. However, Vinicius Jnr’s equally impressive strike salvaged a point, despite the Atlas Lions firmly outplaying Carlo Ancelotti’s side. With the prospect of a strong showing in North America likely to boost PSV’s negotiating position, it is little wonder Bayern Munich moved quickly to strike a deal before the tournament kicked off last week. The German giants agreed a fee “in excess of £45 million”, according to talkSPORT, with Saibari having already agreed to a five-year contract at the Allianz Arena. United attempt late hijack There was significant interest in the Moroccan from the Red Devils, with TEAMtalk revealing INEOS made “recent enquiries” to gauge whether a deal was still possible. United are understood to be on the hunt for a versatile attacker in addition to a midfield revamp to bolster Michael Carrick‘s squad ahead of a return to the Champions League next season. Saibari’s versatility would have allowed sporting director Jason Wilcox to address two needs at once in this pursuit. However, well-placed sources close to the Moroccan’s camp indicated an immediate response was delivered confirming an “agreement with Bayern is already in place.” This marks the second target the Bundesliga champions have beaten United to after a similar arrangement was reached with Nathaniel Brown, despite the Eintracht Frankfurt full-back being open to Old Trafford. The 22-year-old speedster has enjoyed a superb start to life at the World Cup, scoring and assisting one apiece in Germany’s 7-1 demolition of Curacao, which came just a week after he had agreed personal terms to join Bayern. Final Thoughts While United’s standing on the European stage is improving after a third-place finish in the Premier League and qualification for the continent’s elite competition, the Mancunian club still has some way to go before it can rival the world’s elite clubs in the transfer market. Featured image Dan Mullan 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.
How much United are willing to pay for Mateus Fernandes revealed, INEOS unlikely to repeat this Glazers mistake – report
Things appear to have gone cold on the Mateus Fernandes trail, but Manchester United remain on course to finalise the deal soon. With the Portuguese midfielder keen to link up with his idol Bruno Fernandes, it initially seemed like an easy deal to complete on paper. But West Ham’s valuation has slowed things down, while the entry of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and other Premier League rivals have further complicated matters. There have been reports that the Red Devils are preparing their first offer, but the Hammers will insist on £80 million and are likely to reject the opening bid. INEOS keen to avoid repeating Glazer mistakes However, the 20-time English league champions remain confident of getting their man, but as the reliable Sully pointed out, INEOS are determined not to overpay. “Focus is on Mateus atm. Deal advancing well but we don’t want to overpay like we’ve done in the past,” Sully wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Focus is on Mateus atm. Deal advancing well but we don’t want to overpay like we’ve done in the past. Work ongoing on outgoings too. Data pool for other positions being shortened with initial contacts ongoing. Wilcox, Vivell, Macaulay and more all working together on next steps. — Sully (@SullyTalkz) June 16, 2026 It was a common occurrence under the Glazers, with United often being fleeced by teams across Europe, with the deal for Rasmus Hojlund a recent example. Atalanta could not repeat the same trick during negotiations for Ederson, which shows the new co-owners have learnt their lesson. How much United are willing to pay for Mateus Fernandes Plenty of fans will want United to pay what the London side are asking and get done with it, but that might set a wrong example on the market. And as revealed by The Manchester Evening News, United will not exceed the £70 million mark but they will likely have to pay more than £58 million and break the Championship sale record in the process. “The 21-year-old is certain to leave this summer, and West Ham are aware of that, which is damaging their negotiating power. “Fernandes will become the record holder for a sale for a Championship club (£58m), but United will not want to pay in excess of £70m for him.” United looking to play hardball for Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville The report further adds that with Crysencio Summerville also on the club’s radar, United could offer a combined £110 million for the duo. “West Ham are highly unlikely to turn down around £110m for Fernandes and Summerville, despite what Kretinsky may say.” The Hammers value the winger at £50 million, which means United are hoping to reduce the Championship’s valuation by nearly £20 million for both. It will be interesting to see if this ploy works out. Michael Carrick is banking on Mateus Fernandes to arrive as he looks to revamp the team’s engine room ahead of the new campaign. 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 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
100% duels won, 94% passing: United warrior produced defensive masterclass in World Cup win
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez started the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a bang, helping Argentina pick up a 3-0 win over Algeria. The Butcher was indispensable for the Red Devils once again in the second half of last season after recovering from an ACL injury. Martinez initially operated as the left-sided centre-back in a back three under former head coach Ruben Amorim, a position in which he flourished before his unfortunate injury in the tail-end of the 2024/25 season. When the Portuguese was sacked at the turn of the year and Michael Carrick was appointed as his replacement, the English giants successfully shifted to a back four. Martinez went on to forge a rock-solid partnership with Harry Maguire at the heart of Carrick’s backline, and helped the Red Devils finish third in the Premier League. The 28 year old’s efforts also ensured that he was included in Lionel Scaloni’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. Lisandro Martinez Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsSecond Yellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League1813—-11,231′ FA Cup11—–79′ EFL Cup——– Total1914—-11,310′ Source: Transfermarkt. However, it was speculated ahead of the group opener against Algeria that the Argentina manager could station the United man at left-back to deal with an injury crisis. While Martinez had operated at left-back for the Red Devils on a couple of occasions, it was not his ideal position, raising curiosity among fans. Argentina start World Cup with a win Scaloni, however, resisted the urge to move Martinez out of position and opted for Facundo Medina in the left-back role. The Butcher, meanwhile, started alongside Cristian Romero in his usual left centre-back position. Argentina started the game well and took the lead in the 17th minute through Lionel Messi. La Albiceleste then doubled the score after the break through La Pulga, who found the back of the net once again in the 60th minute. Algeria did threaten to get back into the game, but the Argentina backline, marshalled by Martinez, held on. Messi completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute, ending any chance of an upset. While the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner took all the plaudits, Scaloni’s backline also deserves credit for shutting down the Fennecs. Central to helping La Albiceleste secure a clean sheet was an inspired Martinez. Martinez carries United form to World Cup Martinez played the full 90 minutes and was heavily involved, registering 75 touches of the ball, the joint second-most after Enzo Fernandez (79). The United man completed 64 of his 68 attempted passes with a 94% pass completion rate. Martinez was also rock-solid at the back, winning both of his duels, but lost possession four times. The United man registered three clearances and one interception, and made two tackles, including one last-man tackle. The Argentine was not dribbled past even once for the entire game, highlighting his impressive positioning and defensive composure. Lisandro Martinez Stats vs Algeria MetricLisandro Martínez Touches75 Accurate Passes64/68 (94%) Duels (Won)2 (2) Ground Duels (Won)2 (2) Possession Lost4 Defensive Actions6 Clearances3 Interceptions1 Tackles (Won)2 Dribbled Past0 NotesLast man tackles: 1 Source: Sofascore. Final Thoughts After a season disrupted by injuries, Martinez’s assured start at the 2026 FIFA World Cup further highlights how important he can be when fit. United fans now will hope that the Butcher can enjoy an injury-free tournament and come back to inspire an eventful 2026/27 campaign. FT: 🇦🇷 Argentina 3-0 Algeria 🇩🇿 Lisandro Martinez: 90 minutes, clean sheet, 6 defensive contributions, 0 dribble past, 3 clearances, 1 interception, 100% duels won. 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/U8OfTrr2SX — UtdTruthful (@Utdtruthful) June 17, 2026 Feature image Molly Darlington 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.
Dazzling dribbler’s wage demands come to light, Serie A suitors leave the race with United in pole position – report
A cursory glance at Michael Carrick’s options down the left flank meant it was almost a no-brainer that Manchester United would strengthen in that position once the summer transfer window opened. However, following Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu’s success under Carrick, INEOS tweaked their transfer plans and were looking to add a left-back instead. The Red Devils have not had much luck on that front, with deals for Nathaniel Brown and Lewis Hall fizzling out. This is why the 20-time English league champions have once again pivoted back to trying to find a left winger. United eyeing Crysencio Summerville News emerged on Tuesday that United had joined the race for Crysencio Summerville alongside his West Ham teammate Mateus Fernandes. United analysts have been blown away by the Dutchman’s underlying stats, with the Hammers likely to sell due to their relegation to the Championship. The Netherlands international’s form has attracted plenty of suitors, both within the Premier League and in Serie A. However, Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness) have revealed that AS Roma are unlikely to sign the 24-year-old due to his wage demands. Wage demands revealed The report claims that the versatile attacker earns less than €2 million per season after tax, but is looking to “triple his salary” at his next club. The Giallorossi are in no position to pay as much, which means United are in pole position, as agreeing personal terms should not be too much of a hassle. The former Leeds ace earns £45,000 per week (via capology), and INEOS can easily offer him what he wants. But whether they will meet the London club’s £50 million valuation remains to be seen. Despite their Championship status, West Ham are continuing to hold firm with both Mateus Fernandes and now, Crysencio Summerville. United now in pole position The World Cup star scored seven goals and provided five assists, and can play out wide and even up top. United need such a profile badly while his age and Premier League experience make him quite the attractive prospect. Marcus Rashford‘s sale could open up the chance for United to pounce. An exciting next couple of weeks are in store for fans. Feature 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 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
“Can’t think of anything worse”: Scholes flags key concern with United announcement that piles pressure on Carrick
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has identified a potential issue that may arise from the club’s All or Nothing documentary announcement. All or Nothing On Monday, United announced that their 2026/27 season will be documented by Amazon Prime as part of their All or Nothing Series. In so doing, United will become the fourth Premier League team to sanction such a move after Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City. Amazon Prime’s cameras and filming crew will follow Michael Carrick and his players from preseason through the entirety of the 2026/27 campaign. The series is set to debut in the summer of 2027 across more than 240 countries. United insist that they negotiated a record fee for any documentary involving a professional football club, surpassing what Amazon has previously paid. An All or Nothing documentary was proposed during Ruben Amorim’s tenure, but the Portuguese head coach was firmly against the idea. He believed it would prove more disruptive than beneficial. At the time, Amazon were understood to have offered in excess of £10m for the access. Now, however, the landscape looks very different. Under Carrick, United are heading in the right direction, with a long-awaited return to the Champions League to look forward to. As such, it’s widely felt that this would be a much more suitable time to green-light the documentary. Speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, Scholes observed that while the series would delight supporters, the manager and his squad might find it more of a burden. Scholes’ view Asked whether the film will pile more pressure on Carrick, the legendary United midfielder said, “Yeah probably.” “But do you know what, for a fan they are brilliant to watch.” He added, “I watched the Arsenal one. Not for a player, the players and the manager probably won’t like it, but for fans watching…City did it as well with Pep.” “It’s amazing watching people like Arteta, what he’s like. You learn a lot of stuff.” “As a player I can’t think of anything worse.” 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!
Former United boss preparing to rescue World Cup star from Old Trafford nightmare, club-to-club talks have started – report
It is not all about incomings at Manchester United as INEOS look to find buyers for several stars who are not in Michael Carrick’s plans for next season. Chief among them is Manuel Ugarte, with the co-owners already informing the Uruguayan that he has no future at Old Trafford. The problem is that the defensive midfielder’s suitors value him at £24 million, and the Red Devils would like to earn substantially more than that. That is because the South American was signed for an initial £42 million from Paris Saint-Germain, and even though United are unlikely to recoup the whole fee, they would like at least £30 million, considering the 25-year-old has a contract until 2029. Manuel Ugarte has struggled at United The Mirror have now reported that former United boss Ruben Amorim, who has taken over at AC Milan, would like to reunite with the midfielder. It was at Sporting CP where Manuel Ugarte first came into the spotlight, and Amorim was his boss at that point. The duo were expected to recreate the good times in Manchester, but the Uruguay international flattered to deceive. But the Rossoneri remain keen, and further talks are planned in the coming days as the Serie A giants look to drive the price down. Amorim ready to work with Manuel Ugarte again The 20-time English league champions are banking on the Montevideo-born star to succeed at the World Cup, which would see his price skyrocket. “AC Milan are considering a move to rescue Manuel Ugarte from his Manchester United nightmare. United are desperate to off-load Ugarte to the highest bidder this summer. And Italian giants Milan are weighing up a deal to reunite the Uruguayan midfielder with Ruben Amorim. “Ugarte knows he has no future at Old Trafford and has instructed his agent, Jorge Mendes, to find him a new club. Now Mendes has opened talks with Milan about a possible deal. “United would like to recoup a large chunk of the fee they paid for Ugarte – and are holding out for around £30m. Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani is reluctant to meet the asking price, but further talks are planned in the hope of reaching a compromise.” Price remains a sticking point Interestingly, should Manuel Ugarte end up staying, he will likely be fourth choice, which explains why he is eager to jump ship. If the former PSG ace leaves, United will try to sign a third midfielder alongside Ederson and Mateus Fernandes, with the likes of Tyler Adams, Alex Scott, and Ayyoub Bouaddi among the names being tracked. 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
Incredible star is desperate to move to Old Trafford, he has already impressed huge figure at United – report
Manchester United are in pole position to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. Heading into the summer, United regarded Elliot Anderson as their preferred midfield target. However, at this point, Manchester City are the only Premier League club to have made formal bids for the Nottingham Forest star. United are reportedly refusing to enter a bidding war, and are instead targeting players who want to join them. Now, they have accelerated their efforts to sign Mateus Fernandes. Mateus Fernandes “desperate” for Manchester United move Earlier today, The Daily Mail claimed that Manchester United are in discussions with Mateus Fernandes‘ camp and it is believed that personal terms will not be a problem. The report added that United have moved ahead of Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid in the race for the 21-year-old, who is “rated as one of the most exciting midfield prospects in Europe.” The Daily Mail journalist Nathan Salt has now shed more light on the situation, suggesting United captain Bruno Fernandes may have played a crucial role in putting his side in such a strong position for the signature of the Portuguese gem. Speaking on Stretford Paddock YouTube channel, Salt insisted: “The player wants to join Man United. He’s desperate to play with Bruno Fernandes. “Bruno Fernandes has sung his praises to the hierarchy. It shouldn’t in theory be a difficult deal to do.” The West Ham star missed out on an opportunity to play with the United maestro for Portugal as Roberto Martinez decided against including him in his World Cup squad despite hailing him earlier. “Regarding Mateus Fernandes, what he’s doing now is incredible,” Martinez said at a press conference in March. Manchester United hoping to take advantage of West Ham’s relegation United have yet to make a formal bid for Fernandes, who is thought to be valued at around £85 million by the Hammers. The Red Devils, meanwhile, have no desire to meet their demands. Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season Appearances36 Minutes per game84 Touches58.9 Key passes1.0 Accurate passes37.9 Interceptions 1.0 Tackles 2.9 Goals and assists 7 Source: Sofascore Salt suggests that West Ham believe they are in a much stronger negotiating position than United think they are. Meanwhile, INEOS believe the London outfit need to sell following their relegation to the Championship. In what seems to be a waiting game, United are in a comfortable situation thanks to Fernandes’ preference to move to Old Trafford. Furthermore, the Mancunians have already strengthened their midfield with the signing of Ederson from Atalanta. Featured 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 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!
