Manchester United released their retention list ahead of the new season and there were more than a few surprising decisions taken. Jadon Sancho was released despite the Red Devils having the option of triggering a one-year extension. The club also parted ways with academy trio Sonny Aljofree, James Bailey and Malachi Sharpe, while Dermot Mee, Albert Mills and Dante Plunkett all offered new deals. Interestingly, United’s announcement did not include the name of Godwill Kukonki, whose scholarship deal was expected to get over this summer. Godwill Kukonki contract situation Panic set in among the fanbase, considering how highly rated the 18-year-old is at the club. Former head coach Ruben Amorim was a fan, and Michael Carrick also included him in the matchday squad against Newcastle. Academy info: Highly talented defender Godwill Kukonki is entering his third year scholarship agreement and #MUFC aim to sort out a professional deal in due course. Noah Ajayi has been impressing internally with Carrick thought to be a big fan. He could be involved in preseason. — Sully (@sullyexcl) June 10, 2026 There were murmurs that the new head coach could hand him his debut in the final Premier League game of the season, but that did not materialise. However, his exploits for both the Under-18s and Under-21s did not go unnoticed, and the ever-reliable Sully revealed United’s stance. Club’s stance revealed The 18-year-old had signed a three-year scholarship agreement, and the 20-time English league champions plan to offer him a professional deal soon. “Highly talented defender Godwill Kukonki is entering his third year scholarship agreement and Manchester United aim to sort out a professional deal in due course,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). The England Under-19 international can play as a centre-back and left-back, and with the club eyeing a long-term successor for Luke Shaw, Godwill Kukonki has the perfect chance to stake his claim. After his FA Youth Cup heroics, the versatile defender will be hoping to make United’s pre-season squad, where he can impress the head coach even further. Feature image Lewis Storey 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 planning contract talks with powerful defender, fans will be relieved – report
Ex-United coach announces big news on his managerial future after wildly successful stint
Former Manchester United coach Kieran McKenna has confirmed a huge decision on his future as Ipswich Town manager. United stint McKenna joined United in 2016 from Tottenham Hotspur, where he served as the side’s Under-18s manager. In his second season at Old Trafford, he guided the Under-18s to the Premier League Northern Division title. This prompted his promotion, alongside Michael Carrick, to the first-team coaching staff under Portuguese tactician Jose Mourinho. When Mourinho was sacked in December 2018 after a run of poor performances and results, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came in as his replacement and kept both McKenna and Carrick. United enjoyed one of their best spells in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era with Solskjaer, McKenna and Carrick in the dugout. McKenna kept his job even after Solskjaer was dismissed and Ralf Rangnick came in as a temporary replacement. McKenna left United in December 2021 to take charge of Ipswich, where has since endured a wildly successful story. But earlier today, he confirmed that he will be stepping down from his role, just a month after restoring the club’s Premier League status. McKenna statement The ex-United coach said in a statement, “It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club.” “When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye. However, having achieved a second promotion to the Premier League last season, with another memorable final day in our stadium, and after reflection over the last couple of weeks, I feel this is the right time for me to step aside. I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of the club.” “To manage this club has been an absolute privilege. Over the last five seasons we have been on an incredible journey that has brought so many of the best experiences in my professional and personal life. After giving so much to the role over the previous five seasons, I now look forward to taking a break from management and dedicating some time to my family, who have been with me every step of my career so far.” He continued, “There are so many people I would like to thank who have played their part in this journey. Firstly, to Mark Ashton and the Board for giving me the opportunity, at 35 years old, to manage such a massive football club, and for the unwavering support and trust they have shown ever since.” “To my coaching staff and all the wonderful staff at Portman Road and our Playford Road training centre, who work tirelessly to progress the club in every way. To all of the players who have represented the club with professionalism and passion over the past five years.” “Most importantly, thank you to the amazing fans and supporters of Ipswich Town. You have followed this football club through wonderful highs and difficult lows. I will be forever grateful for the way that you welcomed myself and my family, both to the football club and to the county of Suffolk. I will cherish the memories that we have shared together for the rest of my life.” “Ipswich Town will always have a special place in our hearts.” According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, McKenna is taking a break and has no plans to immediately make a return to football management. Former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss Gary O’Neil is viewed as a likely McKenna successor at Ipswich. 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!
German “perfectionist” has caught Carrick’s eye, head coach has special plans for dazzling dribbler – report
One area where Manchester United are lacking specialist options is out wide on the left. Jadon Sancho has departed now that his contract is up, while Marcus Rashford is expected to leave despite Barcelona’s current stance. That leaves only Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu as options for Michael Carrick. While both were successful beyond the head coach’s wildest dreams, their preferred positions lie elsewhere. The Brazilian is a support striker, while the Dane is a wingback. And with INEOS’ full focus on revamping the team’s midfield, not too much is expected to be spent on additions out wide. Left winger needed This explains why Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye is off-limits, along with Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig. The Red Devils have also fallen behind in the race for Afonso Moreira. A zero-cost option could be emerging if trustworthy source Sully is to be believed. He has stated that Noah Ajayi has caught Carrick’s eye. Academy info: Highly talented defender Godwill Kukonki is entering his third year scholarship agreement and #MUFC aim to sort out a professional deal in due course. Noah Ajayi has been impressing internally with Carrick thought to be a big fan. He could be involved in preseason. — Sully (@sullyexcl) June 10, 2026 And for good reason. The 17-year-old was on fire last term, scoring nine times in all competitions for United’s Under-18s while also registering one assist. The German starlet‘s ball-carrying ability, dazzling quick feet and direct style of play have impressed coaches, and it seems Carrick is ready to take a punt on the Germany Under-18 international. Why Noah Ajayi is the perfect fit Described as a “perfectionist“, Noah Ajayi can play all across the frontline including as a makeshift striker, even though Darren Fletcher mainly utilised him down the left. Sully further stated that the Hamburg-born wonderkid is likely to be part of United’s pre-season squad. “Noah Ajayi has been impressing internally with Carrick thought to be a big fan. He could be involved in preseason,” the insider wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Most observers would have thought the Carrington ace would play Under-21s football next, but who knows? If he can impress Carrick, there could be senior minutes on offer, especially if United add a left-back instead of a left winger. 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 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
Bruno Fernandes surprised Gary Neville behind the scenes with his lesser-known quality – report
It does not bear thinking about where Manchester United would be without Bruno Fernandes. Across the last few seasons, the supremely talented playmaker has single-handedly won points for the Red Devils and dragged his teammates to victories that would have been impossible were it not for his genius. Despite that, the United captain still regularly finds himself at odds with some of the most respected and knowledgeable pundits in the game. His long-standing feud with Roy Keane seems to have been put to bed with a recent phone call, but that is just one example of the adversity the Portugal international faces from the media. However, former United captain Gary Neville has now leapt to the defence of the Red Devils’ star player by highlighting a quality Fernandes possesses that became apparent when the cameras were not rolling. A record-breaking season Bruno Fernandes was the stand-out player in the Premier League last season. The creative genius led United to a third-placed finish in the league and topped the assists chart, registering a record-breaking 21 assists across the campaign. These accolades rightly resulted in United’s captain being recognised as the Premier League Player of the Season. Head coach Michael Carrick, having been a terrific midfielder himself, certainly knows how to get the best out of his star player, and the former Sporting CP player will be pivotal as United aim to challenge for silverware next season. A surprising trait After sitting down with Fernandes for an interview with Sky Sports last month, Neville noted a surprising trait that only those close to the attacking midfielder would be able to spot. The former England international elaborated on the point on the Stick To Football podcast, explaining how impressed he had been by Fernandes’ knowledge of all things football. “I tell you what you realise when you speak to him one on one, and you speak to him off camera a couple of weeks ago,” he said. “He’s a massive football fan; he watches all the football. He’s intelligent about football, isn’t he? He’s intelligent about football. He’s like someone that you speak to.” Ian Wright weighs in Neville went on to explain to Keane that Fernandes’ astonishing knowledge is the perfect example of a trait that can surprise pundits. “Yeah, but you’re [Keane] also right, sometimes you think we have this perception that maybe some players are a bit more carefree, and they’re not as serious as we think they are,” he said. Ian Wright then gushed over the United ace, describing how it is the smaller details in Fernandes’ game that set him apart from his teammates. “Yeah, but you can tell by Bruno, when you watch how he plays every single pass, everything, he’s a perfectionist,” he explained. Wright believes it is this desire for perfection that sometimes causes Bruno to lose his temper. He said, “He wants it to be perfect, he doesn’t like people to drop below standards, he looks like somebody that’s just constantly… but you can see it with him, he gets so wound up about thinking.” Fernandes will be hoping to produce more perfect performances in the World Cup and beyond as he looks to get his hands on the silverware that his exceptional talent and attitude deserve. Featured image Ryan Pierse 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.
Morgan Rogers explains how he deals with transfer rumours amid United interest
Manchester United target Morgan Rogers has reflected on his future ahead of what promises to be a busy summer transfer window. The Red Devils’ quest to add more firepower to their attack has taken them to Aston Villa’s doorstep this year. Rogers is coming off a spectacular campaign with the Birmingham-based club, registering 14 goals and 12 assists in 55 games across all competitions to help them clinch the Europa League. Morgan Rogers Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League37371077-3,285′ UEFA Europa League1512352-1,089′ FA Cup221—167′ EFL Cup10—-23′ Total555114129-4,564′ Source: Transfermarkt. The Englishman’s efforts have already earned him admirers at Old Trafford, with the player matching INEOS’ recent Premier League-proven transfer strategy. However, there is rising interest in Rogers’ services across the country as well as from abroad. The 23 year old is under contract until 2031, so the Villans can demand a colossal fee to let him go. Rogers is currently with the England squad preparing for the upcoming World Cup and recently shed light on his future. Rising rumours can be distracting Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Rogers insisted that he no longer allows the rumours to get to his head. He said: “I think the first time it ever happened it was (a distraction).” “You’re in an uncomfortable spot of not realising that people have so much interest in you and you’re not quite realising that. But as you get older and gain experience along the way, you know that comes with it and 95 per cent of it is just noise.” “You hear it, course you do. You can’t help not [hearing it]. You know it’s there but you’ve got to use it in a positive way. You just try and get on with your game and just focus.” Bruno Fernandes’ long-term replacement? Bruno Fernandes is coming off a spectacular campaign, where he won the Premier League Player of the Season award. The Portuguese’s contract with United expires at the end of next season, but all signs indicate that he will extend his stay at the Theatre of Dreams. However, Fernandes will turn 32 this September and age is bound to catch up with him soon. The Portuguese maestro is the metronome that makes the Red Devils tick, so replacing him properly will be of utmost importance. This is where a move for Rogers could make sense. The Englishman could sharpen his skills while working closely with the United skipper, and his versatility could also add another dimension to Michael Carrick’s attack. Having previously worked together at Middlesbrough, the United manager is reportedly keen to be reunited with his former star at Old Trafford as well. When Fernandes eventually begins to show signs of regression, the prodigy could then be ready to take over the mantle from the master. Final Thoughts United are likely to keep a close watch on Rogers as the summer progresses. However, midfield reinforcements remain the Red Devils’ priority this year, so a move for the Englishman may only materialise if the finances are in order. 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
United in pole position to sign French juggernaut despite Barcelona hijack, talks underway to strike 55m deal – report
Manchester United face a fierce race to strike a deal for RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba, according to the latest report from Germany. Defensive Goliath Since signing for Leipzig in a deal worth around £34 million from Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais in 2023, Lukeba has established himself as one of the most dominant defenders in the Bundesliga. Despite not making Didier Deschamps’ squad for the World Cup, the 23-year-old juggernaut has made six appearances for Les Bleus after making his debut in 2024. While he is not the tallest centre-back at 6’0″, he possesses a potent combination of speed and strength, and a good leap to help compensate for his height. This athleticism has led Leipzig to deploy him at both centre-back and left-back, with a wand of a left foot meaning he is a force to be reckoned with in possession. A contract with a release clause worth around £70 million makes the France international an expensive target, though the Red Bull club are understood to be open to offers around the £55m mark. United remain frontrunners Last month, it was reported United were leading the charge for Lukeba after holding talks with his camp, having identified him as the “primary defensive target” amid interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester City. Despite Harry Maguire putting pen to paper on a new deal in April, the Red Devils remain on the hunt for defensive reinforcements, with centre-backs and full-backs both on the radar. Lukeba’s versatility is a major plus for INEOS, given Patrick Dorgu’s reinvention as a left-winger under Michael Carrick leaves Luke Shaw as the sole left-back in the squad – a position the Leipzig man has extensive experience playing. Fussball Daten confirms United remain strongly interested in the Frenchman, having begun “concrete talks” on the player side. However, the German outlet claims LaLiga champions Barcelona have now stormed into the race, with “initial contact” made to gauge the viability of a deal. The Blaugrana are said to be assessing “clever strategies” to afford Leipzig’s asking price, with their focus being on bolstering Hansi Flick’s frontline. Chelsea are mentioned as another suitor, having scouted Lukeba extensively over the past two years, while Tottenham Hotspur are another interested party as the north London club braces for the potential loss of Micky van de Ven. Final Thoughts Nonetheless, Fussball Daten concludes United remain in pole position as the Red Devils are still “leading the pack of suitors.” But there are conflicting noises emanating from the Red Bull Arena, with certain sources suggesting Leipzig’s hierarchy reached an “internal agreement” to sell Lukeba at a discounted price this summer, while other figures indicate they intend to be “hard sellers” in negotiations, and will demand close to the release clause. If United are quoted a fee in the region of £70m for a player who will provide depth as a primary purpose, negotiations will end very quickly, regardless of how much the recruitment team at Old Trafford have been impressed by the defensive goliath. 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.
“Unbelievable” England star wants to join United, Ineos have already made move – The Athletic
Manchester City are yet to find an agreement with Nottingham Forest for Elliot Anderson. However, their latest bid may well have ended any chance of Manchester United making a move for their dream midfield signing. City’s latest bid for the all-action midfielder was worth £106 million plus up front, with potential add-ons taking it in excess of £120m. However, Forest want the fixed fee to surpass the £125m British record Liverpool spent on Alexander Isak. United are not going to spend that much on a single player, given they would like to ideally bring in three midfielders this summer, having already signed Ederson. Alex Scott wants Manchester United According to The Athletic, Manchester United admire Elliot Anderson but “they are not in contention at the current financial levels.” It is claimed United are refusing to enter a bidding war for Anderson, who has yet to show any keen desire to move to Old Trafford. David Ornstein adds that the Red Devils are instead targeting players who want to join them. These players are West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott. Fernandes’ preference to join United is well documented, but this is the first time The Athletic have underlined that Scott is also prepared to be part of Michael Carrick’s project. Manchester United have already made a move Earlier this month, The Athletic reported that United have made “inquiries as to the cost of a deal” for the English midfielder. The 22-year-old has enjoyed a fantastic season with Bournemouth and is exactly the sort of midfielder Carrick needs to dominate possession. The technically gifted Cherries star likes to receive the ball in tight areas, drop a shoulder, and drive his side forward. He has bite to his game, and he works hard to win the ball back. Alex Scott Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season Appearances37 Minutes per game77 Touches54.2 Key passes0.8 Accurate passes31.9 Interceptions 1.0 Tackles 1.6 Goals and assists 4 Source: Sofascore Former Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola famously called Scott an “unbelievable player”. It must be noted that Bournemouth are in talks with Scott over a new contract, with his deal set to run until 2028. However, the same report claimed that, as things stand, an extension is seen as unlikely. Featured image Ryan Pierse 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!
Euro giants eye United’s big-money flop as the perfect replacement for “unstoppable” attacker Ineos dream of signing – report
Rafael Leao is expected to leave AC Milan this summer, with both the player and the club keen to part ways. Consequently, the situation has drawn significant attention. Indeed, it has been a tricky few months for Leao at Milan. He has not been as dangerous as he is known to be, a situation he has attributed to playing through injury and being deployed out of position. Nevertheless, there are not many as deadly as he can be at his best. Even Athletic Club’s winger Nico Williams hinted as much a few months ago when he confessed: “What would I steal from Leao? His strength — when he gets going, he is unstoppable. He is very fast and has a lot of strength.” Man United eye Rafael Leao Manchester United are one of the clubs heavily linked with Leao’s signature. In fact, the 20-time English champions are seen as the Portuguese star’s most likely destination, with it becoming increasingly obvious he is gunning for a Premier League switch. A decision on where he will land is expected after Portugal’s World Cup run. Meanwhile, Milan are already working on finding his replacement, and their primary target will catch United’s attention. Sancho, not Rashford, Milan’s likely Leao replacement According to Calciomercato, Milan would have loved to sign Marcus Rashford, with a move to Barcelona looking unlikely. However, without Champions League football, they will find it difficult to convince him. Still, while they may struggle to land Rashford, they are also targeting Jadon Sancho and believe they have a strong chance of signing him. Apparently, after sorting out their backroom staff following a series of major exits, they will assess how the 26-year-old fits into their plans. A boost to Milan’s pursuit of Sancho is that he is not fixated on joining a Champions League side; instead, according to the Italian outlet, he wants only to rediscover himself. Just released by United and available on a free transfer, it is, ironically, a fascinating twist that he could end up replacing the very player set to take his spot in Manchester. Rashford, Sancho exits clear path for Leao deal As for Rashford, Barcelona’s decision not to trigger his loan into a permanent deal should therefore open his eyes to exploring other clubs willing to hand him a key role. His sale, combined with the removal of his and Sancho’s wages from United’s books, should leave United perfectly positioned to afford and accommodate a superstar of Leao’s calibre. Featured images Marco Luzzani 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.
Preferred destination of Carrick’s dream target comes to light, United have a great chance to land knockout blow – report
Manchester United’s search for Casemiro’s successor remains ongoing. While the Brazilian himself advocated for Ederson’s signing, the Atalanta ace’s strengths lie elsewhere. With a Paris Saint-Germain-style midfield revamp on the cards, head coach Michael Carrick wants at least three new additions in that department. The Elliot Anderson deal remains a tough nut to crack, which is why the Red Devils have been looking at alternatives. Sandro Tonali complications Sandro Tonali fits the bill, but the Italian’s asking price and his wage demands are proving to be problematic. Newcastle are open to a sale, but as revealed by TeamTalk, the 26-year-old prefers a return to his homeland, particularly his former club. AC Milan would jump at the opportunity to re-sign the Italy international, but their house is currently in disarray. Until the Rossoneri get their own house in order, a deal seems unlikely. For now, the Serie A giants are contemplating multiple ways to lower the asking price. Preferred destination revealed “AC Milan do have a ‘pathway’ to a deal for Sandro Tonali, but his dream move has been complicated by the growing uncertainty behind the scenes at San Siro. TEAMtalk understands that the Newcastle United star’s camp are becoming increasingly frustrated by Milan’s failure to put a new leadership structure in place. “The Italy international remains one of Milan’s dream targets this summer and, as TEAMtalk has previously revealed, a return to the Rossoneri remains Tonali’s preferred option should he leave Newcastle. “However, sources have told TEAMtalk that the ongoing delay in appointing both a sporting director and a new head coach is causing concern among those close to the player. Newcastle, however, are not making things easy. Sources indicate the Magpies continue to value Tonali at close to £100million and have no intention of allowing him to leave cheaply. “Yet Milan believe there is a potential pathway to completing a deal. We understand the Rossoneri are exploring structures involving money still owed between the clubs from previous dealings involving Tonali and Malick Thiaw, which could help reduce the overall cash outlay required.” United still have a shot The report further mentions that United, along with Manchester City and Arsenal, are keeping a close eye on proceedings. There is a belief that a deal could be possible towards the closing stages of the summer window. This is exactly why the Old Trafford side are focusing their energies on trying to land Mateus Fernandes from West Ham after signing Ederson. Feature 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 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
Rival PL club launches new mega improved bid to torpedo United’s move for key target – David Ornstein
Manchester City have submitted a new and significantly improved bid for Nottingham Forest midfielder and Manchester United target Elliot Anderson. City improve offer United are prioritising midfield reinforcements heading into the summer transfer window, which promises to be a busy one as the club prepares to play in the Champions League next season and potentially mount a title challenge. The Red Devils have already agreed a deal with Atalanta for Ederson, who is poised to officially complete his move after Brazil’s involvement in the World Cup in North America. Ederson was handed a shock late call-up after Wesley suffered an injury. But United’s top target is Anderson, who enjoyed another brilliant campaign despite Forest fighting to beat the drop for most of it. City are viewed as the favourites to land Anderson, who is also believed to be more inclined to seal a switch to the Etihad. However, a recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United have not given up hope and are optimistic about their chances of luring him to Old Trafford. United are prepared to offer him eye-watering wages to join Michael Carrick’s ranks. Last week, City had an opening bid worth around £80m for Anderson rejected by Forest. It’s said that Forest value the player north of the £100m that the likes of Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo went for. Now, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has revealed that United’s cross-town rivals have had a fresh bid knocked back by Forest. Anderson chase heats up Ornstein reveals, “Manchester City have made a verbal offer for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson worth more than £100m.” “The bid was worth £106million (€122m, $142m) up front with potential add-ons taking it in excess of £120m (€139m, $160m).” “To consider a sale of the England international Forest want the fixed fee to eclipse the £125m British record Liverpool paid Newcastle United for Alexander Isak last summer.” Ornstein further mentions, “Manchester United admiration for Elliot Anderson well known but not in contention at current financial levels. United refusing to enter bidding war; targeting players who want them + focused on candidates like Mateus Fernandes & Alex Scott.” 🚨 Manchester United admiration for Elliot Anderson well known but not in contention at current financial levels. #MUFC refusing to enter bidding war; targeting players who want them + focused on candidates like Mateus Fernandes & Alex Scott @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/DdanEQcqnz — David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 10, 2026 Meanwhile, Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun claims that Anderson remains confident of joining City in the upcoming window. Luckhurst notes, “Well-placed sources say ongoing discussions between City and Forest have still been productive and Anderson could leave for a fee in excess of £100million. Multiple sources believe that Anderson would prefer to join City, who are due to install Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola’s replacement.” It’s understood that United are yet to formally withdraw their interest in the 23-year-old. Anderson has three years left on his contract at the City Ground. Featured image Jack Thomas 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!
