Manchester United have reportedly held talks to sign Aboubacar Maiga, but face a fierce race with Paris Saint-Germain to secure the 16-year-old wonderkid’s signature. Malian Messi Dubbed the ‘Malian Messi’, Maiga is considered one of the most highly rated young talents to emerge from African football in recent years – with a host of top clubs keeping tabs on his progress. Offering dizzying dribbling and agility, with an incisive eye for a pass, the attacking midfielder possesses the profile to develop into an outstanding playmaker. Well-placed sources describe him as a “potentially generational talent”. As captain of the Mali under-16 national side, this quality on the pitch appears to be matched by a strong work ethic and leadership skills off it, further strengthening his appeal. Maiga is currently on the books at Academie Africa Foot, a highly renowned organisation operating in Cameroon, which serves as a link to top sides in Europe. Within the Premier League, United are joined by Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle United in their admiration of the youngster, while on the continent Barcelona and the Red Bull organisation are also suitors. PSG storm into the race TEAMtalk reveals PSG have now leapfrogged their rivals to assume “pole position” for Maiga as the Ligue 1 giants show no signs of resting on their laurels after defending their Champions League title in Budapest last week. “The French champions have accelerated their efforts in recent weeks, and Maiga is currently spending time in France as the club intensify their assessment of the teenager. “Sources indicate PSG’s project has made a strong impression on both the player and those around him, with the Paris club increasingly confident they can beat a host of European rivals to his signature.” United are understood to have “closely monitored” the youngster over the past twelve months, with discussions held over a “potential move” to Old Trafford. This is mirrored at Anfield, while Chelsea, Man City and Newcastle have “also explored opportunities” to sign him. “The Premier League’s elite view Maiga as a player with enormous potential and one capable of becoming a future star at the highest level,” the report states. Final Thoughts United have demonstrated a renewed focus on securing the best young talent from across the globe since INEOS took the helm in 2024. The capture of Malian midfielder Sekou Kone from Guidars FC is a testament to this, with the club looking to repeat the trick with his younger compatriot. But it appears Maiga is leaning towards the French capital, with the pull of playing for the world’s best team, under the world’s best manager, in the heart of one of the world’s best cities a difficult sales pitch to overcome. Interestingly, PSG and United are also battling it out to sign West Ham starlet Mateus Fernandes, though the Red Devils are said to be leading the charge to secure the 21-year-old Portugal international. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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’s pursuit of midfield magician rocked as PSG now in pole position to strike deal – report
United reach full agreement to seal big-money deal for 26-yo Samba star – Fabrizio Romano
The transfer window does not officially open for another nine days, but Manchester United have finalised their first signing of the summer. According to Fabrizio Romano, United and Atalanta have now “completed all documents” for €45m package deal for Ederson. “All done and player set to sign later on this summer but all agreed with Éderson since May,” added the Italian journalist. “First signing: 100% confirmed.” It is understood that the 26-year-old has agreed to sign a four-year contract, with an option for a fifth, worth €5 million per year (£4.3m). The 6ft midfielder, known for his physicality and ground coverage, becomes the first signing of the Michael Carrick era at Old Trafford. As part of United’s midfield overhaul, INEOS are expected to sign at least one more midfielder following the arrival of Ederson, who is expected to replace Casemiro. Should Manuel Ugarte depart, the Red Devils may consider bringing in a third midfielder ahead of next season. More to follow… Featured image by Marco Luzzani/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 Latest Top Stories… 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!
World Cup prep ramps up
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United flop confirms Liverpool wanted to sign him before Old Trafford switch
Former Manchester United forward Antony was one of the club’s most controversial signings in recent years, but he could have been playing for Liverpool had circumstances been different. The Red Devils were looking for a fresh start in the summer of 2022 when they turned to the Brazilian. The English giants were coming off a rocky campaign, with former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer losing his job in the middle of the season. The Norwegian’s reign promised so much, but failed to deliver trophies, prompting United to ultimately part ways with him in November 2021. Ralf Rangnick was initially brought to the Theatre of Dreams to steady the ship, before the Red Devils handed the keys of the first team to Erik ten Hag in the summer of 2022. The Dutchman had earned a strong reputation during his stint with Ajax and was identified as the ideal candidate to revive the fortunes of the fallen Premier League giants. Ten Hag raided his former club that summer to sign Lisandro Martinez to strengthen the backline. With United also looking to upgrade their attack, the Dutchman opted to bring Antony to Old Trafford as well. One of United’s most disappointing signings in last decade Antony registered 12 goals and 10 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions for Ajax in the 2021/22 campaign, helping them win the Eredivisie. That prompted United to pay £82 million for the Brazilian’s signature, making him the club’s second-most expensive signing after Paul Pogba. Unfortunately for Antony, his spell at the Theatre of Dreams was hardly fruitful. The 26 year old registered just eight goals and three assists in 44 games in his debut campaign, hardly justifying his exorbitant price tag. Things went from bad to worse in his second season, when he only found the back of the net on three occasions in 38 appearances. Following Ten Hag’s departure and the arrival of Ruben Amorim in November 2024, the Brazilian briefly switched to a wing-back role. However, he failed to impress the Portuguese head coach and was subsequently offloaded to Real Betis on loan in the middle of the season. Antony was a hit at the Estadio Benito Villamarin and joined the LaLiga club permanently last summer. The Brazilian ended his Old Trafford tenure with just 12 goals and five assists in 96 appearances across all competitions. While his career with United never took off, the player has now revealed that he could have been playing on the Merseyside instead. Antony had chance to join Liverpool Speaking on Podpah, Antony said that several clubs, including Liverpool, were interested in signing him during his time at Ajax. He said: “There were, man, there were from England, too.” “I think it’s worth mentioning at least one right; there was Liverpool at the time, which was Klopp’s team. Yeah, I think that is worth mentioning.” Antony registered 14 goals and 10 assists in 46 appearances for Real Betis in the recently concluded season. Antony Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played LaLiga323086612,460′ UEFA Europa League109632-788′ Copa del Rey43-1–250′ Total46421410813,498′ Source: Transfermarkt. Final Thoughts United’s decision to sign Antony was one of the most glaring transfer errors in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. Thankfully, the Red Devils have shown a lot more planning in the transfer market in the past two summers, and fans will hope that trend continues this year. Featured image Gabriele Maltinti 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 prepare 80m raid on major rival for 26-yo monster as Carrick urges Wilcox to secure “top target” – report
Manchester United are beginning the transfer window at a breakneck speed as the Red Devils look to lay down a marker to their rivals this summer. Fixing the Engine Room The priority is fixing Michael Carrick’s stalling engine room, with Casemiro‘s contract set to expire and Manuel Ugarte having proven to be an incapable deputy to the Brazil international. If a suitable offer arrives for the 25-year-old Uruguayan, he will be sold. There has been strong interest from Turkish champions Galatasaray, as well as teams in Italy and England. Another South American has been signed to fill this void after a £39 million deal was struck with Atalanta for Ederson this week, who will arrive at Old Trafford on July 1. The 26-year-old Brazilian is a versatile player, capable of playing across a variety of roles in midfield. He is understood to be a long-term target for United, with full support from the newly founded data analytics team. United are not resting on their laurels after one agreement, however, with talks ongoing for West Ham starlet Mateus Fernandes. The 21-year-old Portugal international will leave the London Stadium as the Hammers need to raise significant funds, having been relegated last month. But Caught Offside now reveals another big-money raid for a Premier League midfielder is in the works as United are now “stepping up their pursuit” of Sandro Tonali – with Carrick personally pushing for the Newcastle maestro. United ready to strike Tonali, 26, has emerged as one of the finest operators in the Premier League since arriving from AC Milan in 2023, despite an initial 10-month ban for breaching betting regulations. Combining hard yards with high-level technique, the Italy international is an all-action dynamo, capable of affecting the game across every phase of play. There are few midfielders with as well-rounded a skillset as him. Newcastle would be loath to lose one of Eddie Howe’s most trusted lieutenants, but a combination of a poor campaign on the pitch and worrying financials off it are forcing the Magpies to consider big-money sales. Barcelona’s £70m bid for Anthony Gordon – a move which negatively affects Marcus Rashford’s hopes of remaining in Catalonia – has eased the pressure at St James’ Park, though Tonali himself is said to be pushing for an exit. In the build-up to the summer, Newcastle slapped down a £100m asking price to ward off suitors, with Arsenal and Manchester City also firmly in the race. But a well-placed source reveals the Red Devils are now ready to test this uncertainty by undercutting this figure. “Manchester United and INEOS are on the same page – after securing Ederson, it looks like they’re ready to move for Tonali next. Newcastle don’t want to sell, and they’ll insist on at least £100m. However, United can’t and won’t pay that, so we expect them to test the waters with around £70-80m to start with.” Carrick is understood to have identified the Italian as his “top target” in midfield, a decision INEOS – led by sporting director Jason Wilcox – are “on board” with to give their head coach exactly what he needs to build upon this year’s success. Final Thoughts United’s primary targets remain Nottingham Forest talisman Elliot Anderson and Real Madrid superstar Aurelien Tchouameni, with background work continuing to be done for both. The prospect of striking a deal for either looks increasingly remote, however. In their place, Tonali is the next best option on the list, given the alternatives in the Premier League – Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton – do not offer the same ‘completeness’ as the Newcastle powerhouse. 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 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 starlet lifts lid on crazy week that saw him earn blockbuster call-up to World Cup squad
Manchester United starlet Tyler Fletcher earned a late call-up to the Scotland squad for the 2026 World Cup last month following an unfortunate injury to Billy Gilmour. The Red Devils academy graduate, who is the son of club legend and current Under-18 manager Darren Fletcher, broke into the senior side this year. His twin brother, Jack, represents England’s Under-19 side, but Tyler opted to pledge his allegiance to Scotland, following in the footsteps of his father. Fletcher senior registered 80 caps for his country and also captained the national side, although he never played at the World Cup. Tyler, who operates as a midfielder, has been a revelation for the youth side, and won the Denzil Haroun Reserve Player of the Season award this year. The 19 year old was handed his first-team debut by Michael Carrick in February, when he came off the bench in a 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur. Fletcher also featured for United in the 3-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion in the last game of the season, and has now secured a seat on the plane across the Atlantic. The youngster recently sat down to discuss the unbelievable turn of events and how he has coped with it. Tyler Fletcher Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsSecond YellowRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League 215-1—1,192′ Premier League International Cup U214-1—390′ National League Cup4—–288′ Premier League 2 Playoffs3-1—270′ EFL Trophy3—–270′ Premier League2—–17′ FA Cup——- Total31-3—2,427′ Source: Transfermarkt. Fletcher opens up on crazy week Speaking to the Scottish FA, Fletcher revealed the circumstances leading to his call-up to Scotland’s World Cup squad. He said: “It’s been a crazy week. I didn’t expect it but I’ll take it in my stride and I’m loving every minute of it. In the changing room afterwards, I found out Billy got injured and I’m obviously gutted for him.” “The manager came up to me and said: ‘It might not be the last time I see you on this trip,’ so I was like wow. The next morning I got at call at about 8 o’clock and it was: ‘Do you want to go to the World Cup?’ “I was speechless. Then obviously I said yes!” “I went to my auntie’s wedding that night straight after the game, stayed in Glasgow then rushed to the hotel to get on the bus to the airport. I’ve got nothing with me. I’ve got nothing in my suitcase.” “I’ve got no boots. I’m getting those sent over today. It’s a good level, it’s a tough challenge and the heat’s hard to train in, but I’m comfortable and I feel like I’m ready to go and play.” Ex-United ace Scott McTominay helping him settle down Fletcher was among five young players who trained with the senior side last week and the United academy graduate was handed his international debut in the 4-1 win over Curacao last weekend. The youngster’s efforts were enough to convince manager Steve Clarke to turn to him when a space in the squad opened up. The teenager went on to acknowledge that he never imagined he would make it into the World Cup squad. He said: “It was in the back of my head that if I go and make an impression then maybe get into the first team and be around it. But to get to the World Cup a week after training is something I never thought of and it’s just a dream come true.” “I knew Scott (McTominay) from United and he’s helped me a lot. Kenny McLean’s been unbelievable with me. A top guy and honestly one of the best players I’ve ever trained with. He’s so good. All of them are brilliant. It’s a great squad and a great team to be around.” Tyler went on to reveal that his father, Darren Fletcher, was ecstatic about his inclusion in the squad, adding: “He was like ‘my whole career I didn’t go to a Euros or a World Cup and you’ve done it after 45 minutes of football!’ He’s buzzing for me. He’s so happy and he’s coming out for every game I think.” Final Thoughts Fletcher’s involvement in the 2026 World Cup, regardless of whether he secures game time, will be an invaluable experience and aid his development. It will also be good news for United, who will be hoping that he can build on his recent good form next season. Featured image Ben Roberts photo 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 star chastised by Sir Alex taken to hospital after bizarre injury – report
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich has suffered a shock injury despite retiring over 15 years ago. Career The Australian first played for Manchester United in the 1990-1991 season before leaving for Sydney United, and then returned to the Premier League with Aston Villa. Bosnich spent seven seasons in Birmingham before returning to Old Trafford in 1999 to replace the legendary Peter Schmeichel. He played 35 times in the 1999-2000 season as United retained the title but did not play at all for the club in 2000-2001 before being sold to Chelsea. The keeper was famously called out by Sir Alex Ferguson for turning up to pre-season overweight. Bosnich finally retired in 2009 while playing back in Australia for Sydney Olympic. Post-playing career The Australian has had a successful punditry career in his native country since retiring and is a regular on Fox Sports Australia. Bosnich also had his health problems when he had to pull out of Champions League coverage work on Australian TV as he was rushed to hospital for surgery. Another health incident The Daily Beirut reports that Bosnich has once again needed to be rushed to surgery, but this time due to an injury. It was reported that, “a ruptured quadricep has forced former Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich to prepare for surgery after an injury sustained during a celebrity penalty shootout event held ahead of the World Cup.” The article continues, “while playing as goalkeeper, Bosnich faced a penalty kick from former AFL executive Gillon McLachlan. Though he successfully saved the shot, Bosnich immediately cried out in pain and fell to the ground.” The onlookers originally thought it was a joke and, whilst the Australian was able to stand, he moved to the sidelines and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment. 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 Latest Top Stories… 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.
“We’ll see what happens”: United midfield target throws door open to potential switch to Old Trafford this summer
Manchester United are on the hunt for midfielders this summer. Midfield search They have already secured the signing of Ederson from Atalanta. The Brazilian will join the club in July. The Red Devils are also said to be in talks with Matheus Fernandes at West Ham United regarding a second midfield signing. Nonetheless, with a light midfield to start with and Casemiro leaving, the Red Devils could well add three summer signings to the midfield department. There have been links to players such as Aurelian Tchouameni, Sandro Tonali, Elliot Anderson and Alex Scott. Shea Charles United have also been reported to have an interest in Southampton’s young midfielder, Shea Charles. The Northern Ireland international has already played 34 times for his country at just 22 years old. He was part of Manchester City’s academy but left for Southampton in 2023. United are said to be keen on the player and have been watching his rise this season. Charles came to national attention in England when he scored the winning goal against Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-finals and also in the Championship play-off semi-final. Future The Irishman spoke to The Belfast Telegraph after Northern Ireland’s 1-0 win over Guinea and discussed his club future. When asked about his future plans, he stated, “at the moment I am focused on Southampton and the next campaign. Obviously we’ll see what happens when we go back into camp or pre-season.” He then also added, “I’m really looking forward to going back to Southampton.” Whilst it seems there is no doubt Charles would be content to stay at the Saints, his comments certainly do not outright deny that there is a chance the energetic midfielder could leave this summer. Shea Charles 25/26 season stats Games playedGoalsAssistsMins played 38622469 Feature image Leila Coker 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.
