Under Michael Carrick, it has been either Bryan Mbeumo or Benjamin Sesko leading the attack. The two have rarely played together. Yet, according to Ollie Watkins‘ admissions on Rio Meets, Carrick may have missed a trick by not starting them alongside each other more frequently. In a chat with Rio Ferdinand, the Aston Villa striker spoke about the one trait in Mbeumo’s locker that could prove very handy for United. Mbeumo can be a great playmaker Having played as a striker with Mbeumo operating as a winger at Brentford, Watkins described the Cameroonian as an interesting playmaker whose unselfishness would always create plenty of goalscoring chances. “So, and Bryan was always so unselfish,” Watkins said. “Like, whenever we’re around the box, or there’s times where he could maybe shoot, he would always look to cross it and set me up. “So yeah, it was an enjoyable time. It’s nice to see that. Yeah, they’ve had good careers, and they’re successful.” In Watkins’ last full season at Brentford before his move to Villa, he found the back of the net 26 times, and Mbeumo’s seven assists that campaign likely played no small part in that tally. That said, Mbeumo’s statistics paint him more as a goalscorer than a provider. Last season, for instance, he managed 11 league goals but contributed only three assists. Partnership with Sesko can get the best out of both If Carrick can unlock the playmaker in Mbeumo, it could significantly boost United’s goal production. Should Mbeumo look to support Benjamin Sesko, much as Watkins says he did for him, rather than purely chase goals himself, it could give the Slovenian striker the platform for a fine season, perhaps even putting him in contention for the Golden Boot. Exciting times await United fans. Hopefully, next season, things click, and supporters get to see the best version of Mbeumo, scoring plenty of goals while also providing more assists. 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 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.
Ollie Watkins hails “unselfish” United star, hands Carrick the blueprint for deadly partnership up top
Uniteds pursuit of 26-yo midfield monster rocked with Atletico Madrid now closing in on deal – report
Manchester United have reportedly secured the services of Atalanta midfielder Ederson as they look to upgrade their midfield this summer. The Red Devils’ search for Casemiro’s ideal replacement has seen them linked with several names, and they have found a suitable candidate in Serie A. According to a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person, the English giants have already reached full agreement with their Italian counterparts for the 26 year old. Ederson, though, is unlikely to be the only midfielder through the door this summer. While Casemiro is set to leave as a free agent, Manuel Ugarte could also move on to greener pastures this summer. Unlike the Brazilian, who was outstanding in his final season at Old Trafford, the Uruguayan never really warmed up to life in M16. Ugarte’s possible departure, as such, means that INEOS have to further invest in the middle of the park, and previous reports have named Sporting’s Morten Hjulmand as an option for the job. United’s long-term target United have had their eyes on Hjulmand since the days of former head coach Ruben Amorim. The duo enjoyed great success together at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, and the Red Devils were keen to rekindle their partnership at the Theatre of Dreams. While Amorim lost his job in January, INEOS have retained their interest in Hjulmand, who remains a key member of Sporting’s starting XI. This season, the Danish midfielder has registered three goals and six assists in 45 appearances across all competitions, all but one of which have been starts. Morten Hjulmand Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Liga Portugal2726348-2,325′ UEFA Champions League1010–5-910′ Taça de Portugal66-22-621′ Allianz Cup11—-90′ Portuguese Supercup11–1-90′ Total45443616-4,036′ Source: Transfermarkt. Hjulmand is a modern No. 6 who excels at controlling the tempo of the game from deep and is adept at breaking up opposition play and shielding the backline. While his skill set has convinced the Old Trafford hierarchy, they are not the only party in the race. Previous reports suggest that Arsenal are hot on the Dane’s heels, while Real Madrid have also been mentioned as the player’s suitors. However, it now appears that a new club has entered the fray and is threatening to ruin United’s plans. Atletico Madrid reach Hjulmand agreement According to Antenna1 via Mundo Deportivo, Atletico Madrid have agreed personal terms with Hjulmand ahead of a move this summer. Los Rojiblancos are now preparing to strike a deal with Sporting, with the report adding that an agreement is likely for €40 million. The report continues by stating that the LaLiga giants have agreed to triple the player’s wages to beat the competition in the race for his signature. The Dane currently earns around €2 million with the Portuguese club, so he is more than happy with the arrangement. The report also insists that should Jose Mourinho take charge at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, he will ask Real Madrid to secure Hjulmand’s signature. Sport Witness add that Atletico Madrid were ready to offer €25 million for the Dane in January, but the Portuguese club turned them down. An exit, however, appears to be more likely this summer. Final Thoughts Hjulmand’s asking price makes him a superb option for United, even though his lack of Premier League experience does raise a concern. The Red Devils are already adding one midfielder from abroad, so perhaps they would be better advised to invest in a Premier League-proven candidate for the position next. Featured image Gualter Fatia 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 legend explains why dramatic twist at PL rival could help Carrick launch title charge this season
Things looked rather bleak for Manchester United before Michael Carrick returned to the dugout in January. The club seemed incapable of producing a string of successive wins and the squad simply could not adapt to the demands of Ruben Amorim’s system. Carrick was seen as a safe pair of hands for the remainder of the season, and perhaps to secure a return to Europe the following season. However, what the former midfielder achieved far outweighed these pessimistic predictions. Now, with a two-year contract extension under his belt and the future looking bright, United fans are beginning to dream about returning to the top of the Premier League. It is not just the fans, either, as a former Red Devil has weighed in on the situation himself with an optimistic outlook that supporters will be sure to love. A successful season United signed off a tremendous second half of the campaign in style by securing a 3-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion, a game that will always be remembered for Bruno Fernandes‘ record-breaking performance. However, it was just one of many excellent performances since Carrick replaced Amorim. After beginning with thrilling victories against Manchester City and champions Arsenal, the Red Devils secured a return to the Champions League by completing a league double over fierce rivals Liverpool for the first time in a decade. A third-placed finish was the best anyone could hope for this season and the team delivered just that. Now, with rival teams in periods of transition and the summer transfer window about to open, United fans and legends alike are starting to believe this could be the start of something truly special. Cole’s thoughts on Casemiro and Ederson While speaking to Sky Sports, United’s goalscoring legend Andy Cole was asked about the club’s deal to sign Ederson and whether he is the right man to fill the place of fan-favourite midfielder Casemiro. He said: “I’m hoping so. But however you look at that I think Casemiro has been a fine player for many, many years. “A couple of seasons ago everyone was questioning him. As I say, cream always rises to the top and he did that towards the back end of his Manchester United career and he was fantastic last season. “So hopefully Ederson will be able to go in there and do a good sturdy job like Casemiro did.” Cole’s thoughts on Carrick Cole was also asked about the Red Devils’ success last season, replying: “I think, you know, in the end Michael done a fantastic job to get the club to finish in the position they ended up finishing in. Champions League football come next season. A club like Manchester United need Champions League football.” The former England international was then asked about whether United could take advantage of the uncertainty regarding the clubs around them in the league, especially with Pep Guardiola having left Manchester City. He said: “The more football matches you win, you never know. And ultimately that’s what it’s about” “If they can go into this season with the same confidence they ended with last season, you never know what can happen. I think everyone will be thinking like that now. Pep leaving Manchester City that we’ve got a chance of winning the Premier League. “That’s football. Some days are good. Some days are bad. So you just never know” Here’s hoping the good days far outweigh the bad next season and United fans get to watch Carrick and his team lift a trophy. Featured image George Wood 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.
Official: United confirm red-hot forward has left Old Trafford permanently
Manchester United have released a statement confirming that Rasmus Hojlund has left the club on a permanent basis. United statement United’s statement partly reads, “Rasmus Hojlund has joined Napoli on a permanent transfer.” “Everyone at the club would like to wish Rasmus all the very best for the future.” Hojlund joined United in the summer of 2023 from Atalanta. The Red Devils forked out £72m to land him. However, he struggled to justify his massive price tag. Tasked with leading the line for United during a tumultuous period for the club, Hojlund struggled under the weight of expectations, a struggle epitomised by the meagre four Premier League goals he managed in 2024/25. Against his wishes, United loaned him out to Napoli last summer. He enjoyed a positive loan spell at Napoli, contributing 16 goals and six assists across all competitions. United inserted an obligation for Napoli to buy him permanently if they secured Champions League football. Upon completion of this goal, Hojlund himself bid farewell to the Old Trafford faithful via social media. Now, United have announced as much. It’s understood that United have received €50m from offloading the Denmark international. Manchester United received €50m from Napoli for Rasmus Hojlund, including the loan and transfer fees. Chance for Benjamin Sesko to take the No. 9 shirt at Old Trafford now if he wants it. His Premier League record stacks up well against Hojlund #mufc 𝐑𝐚𝐬𝐦𝐮𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐣𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐝… pic.twitter.com/9PmO11MrJv — Tyrone Marshall (@TyMarshall_MEN) June 3, 2026 Striker plans With Hojlund gone and uncertainty also surrounding the future of Joshua Zirkzee, United may have little choice but to dip into the market for a new striker. If Zirkzee also leaves, that would leave Benjamin Sesko as the only other senior and natural striker in Michael Carrick’s ranks. This simply cannot hold for a season that includes a Champions League return. At the moment, United appear to be prioritising midfield reinforcements. On Tuesday, it was confirmed that a full agreement is in place for Ederson to join the club from Atalanta. United are also looking at other midfielders including Mateus Fernandes, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba. Even so, United must make sure they aren’t left short up front. Featured image Marco M. Mantovani 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!
United willing to tear up summer plans for 80m French wonderkid, Wilcox convinced he’s a “future superstar” – report
Manchester United are refusing to give up hope of striking a blockbuster deal for AFC Bournemouth sensation Eli Junior Kroupi, according to a new report. Breakout Star Kroupi has enjoyed a meteoric rise in his debut season for the Cherries, scoring 13 times as he broke the Premier League record for most goals scored by a teenager. Signed from FC Lorient in the 2025 winter window, the 19-year-old forward spent the second half of that campaign back on loan with the French side before arriving at the Vitality Stadium last summer. What has followed has defied even Andoni Iraola’s wildest expectations, with Kroupi taking to English football like a duck to water. Beyond the eye-catching goals, his performances reveal a well-rounded attacking force, capable of playing right across the frontline. Naturally, an outstanding youngster plying his trade at a club like Bournemouth has put a host of top clubs on red alert. It would almost be quicker to name which member of Europe’s elite is not interested. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester City join the Red Devils in the hunt for the France under-21 international, while further afield Bayern Munich, both Spanish giants – FC Barcelona and Real Madrid – and Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain are also admirers. United’s focus this summer is a complete revamp in midfield, with up to £150 million set to be directed towards three new recruits. There is interest in a new left-winger and No.9 to replace Joshua Zirkzee – two roles the versatile Kroupi could fill – but the budget was not believed to be able to stretch to a big-money signing in attack. United ready to strike Sports Boom reports United are “ready to go toe-to-toe” with Arsenal, considered the frontrunners after winning their first Premier League title in 22 years, in a “blockbuster £80million fight” for the Bournemouth No.22. United are said to be “convinced he could develop into one of Europe’s deadliest forwards” after receiving glowing scouting reports this season. Well-placed sources claim Old Trafford chiefs, led by sporting director Jason Wilcox, believe he “possesses all the qualities needed to become a future superstar and could spearhead the club’s attack for years to come.” This would explain why United have reignited their interest after it appeared to have cooled, with INEOS having previously gone all in on an outstanding French talent – Leny Yoro – in their first window in charge. Bournemouth are described as being in “no mood to cash in” on their prized asset after just one year on the south coast. A long-term contract until 2030, which does not contain a release clause like many of their other talents, further strengthens their negotiating position. The report states Bournemouth are demanding a fee around £80 million and have “no intention of entertaining cut-price offers.” There is hope this price could “rocket even higher if a bidding war erupts between the Premier League giants.” Final Thoughts Increasingly, Kroupi looks to be a generational talent, with the potent pairing of class and confidence every elite forward possesses. He offers a versatile skillset, capable of dropping deep to link play, drifting wide to isolate a defender, or providing the lethal finishing touch in the opposition box. In short, the Lorient native is the next best big thing to emerge from France – as he has proved with aplomb in his maiden voyage to England. If INEOS consider him a “future superstar” as inside sources suggest, it’s little wonder they appear ready to rip up their summer plans to go all-in to try and secure his signature. Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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 lock horns with Arsenal over record-breaking deal for 24-yo magician with more assists than Bruno – report
Manchester United face a fierce race to sign Christos Tzolis, with two of their major rivals ready to accelerate their interest in the 24-year-old wing wizard, according to a new report. Creator-in-Chief Fresh from an outstanding campaign with Club Brugge, Tzolis is preparing to represent Greece at the World Cup for the first time. However, the Thessaloniki native’s future in Belgium once the tournament finishes is far from certain, as a host of top clubs are gunning for his signature – with good reason. Tzolis has produced a staggering 51 goal contributions this season – 22 goals and 29 assists – with 23 of these assists registered in the Jupiler Pro League, surpassing Bruno Fernandes‘s record-breaking return of 22 in the Premier League. This incredible streak propelled Club Brugge to their 20th league title, earning him the Belgian Player of the Year award. The Blue and Blacks are keen to keep hold of their talismanic attacker, though there is acceptance that his form makes the prospect of a move to a top European side, such as United, increasingly likely. However, it will require a club-record fee, which currently sits at €36m (£31.2m), to let him leave the Jan Breydel Stadium this summer. Arsenal and Newcastle ready to strike United are understood to be on the hunt for a new left-winger to bring more balance to Michael Carrick’s attack. Tzolis is an attractive option as he can play across the frontline, though he operates primarily from the left-hand side. The primary targets, such as Yan Diomande and Morgan Rogers, are expected to cost up to £100m, effectively ruling the Red Devils out of the running as the bulk of the budget is set to be directed towards the midfield. However, the Greek playmaker’s expected fee would allow him to be targeted alongside this focus on the engine room, as he would cost roughly a third of the price. Nevertheless, United are not alone in their admiration, with Arsenal and Newcastle United both ramping up pursuits after receiving glowing reports from their scouts. Sports Boom reveals the Gunners, fresh from securing their first Premier League title in 22 years, are not resting on their laurels. They are “closely monitoring” Tzolis as an option to bolster Mikel Arteta’s frontline. However, it is Newcastle United who are said to have the “strongest interest”, with Eddie Howe identifying him as the top target to replace Anthony Gordon, who joined FC Barcelona for £70m last week. Final Thoughts Manchester United will need to move quickly and decisively if they are to fend off interest from two of their biggest rivals to secure Tzolis’ signature this summer. There are few players in Europe with the technical quality and vision to match club captain Fernandes’s output – but the Greek magician is one of them. The fact he plays in a position the Red Devils are in need of reinforcements, and is seemingly available for a price which the club can actually afford, only strengthens the case for him to arrive at Old Trafford after the World Cup. Featured image Alex Bierens de Haan 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 ready to hijack Newcastle’s deal for 34m wizard, INEOS see him as “missing piece” for Carrick – report
Manchester United are ready to hijack Newcastle United’s move for Bazoumana Touré as the Red Devils begin the transfer window at a blistering pace, according to a new report. Midfield Rebuild Manchester United’s priority this summer is a complete revamp in midfield, with up to three new signings expected to arrive. Casemiro‘s contract is set to expire after the club opted against triggering a one-year extension, while Manuel Ugarte will be sold if a suitable offer is tabled for the 25-year-old Uruguayan, amid growing interest from Italy and Türkiye. A deal for the first midfielder was struck last night, as United agreed to pay an intial £35 million for Atalanta dynamo Ederson, beating out interest from Atletico Madrid to do so. The plan is now to accelerate a pursuit of West Ham starlet Mateus Fernandes, with talks already held with the 21-year-old Portugal international. He is understood to consider Old Trafford a “dream” move and is keen to link up with his compatriot and namesake, Bruno. United are not solely focused on midfield, however. Reinforcements on the left-hand side, be it at fullback or on the wing, are also on the agenda, though the bulk of the budget will be directed towards the engine room. The primary targets on the left wing are Yan Diomande and Morgan Rogers, but deals for either will prove difficult due to prohibitive asking prices as high as £100 million. This has led United to consider alternative options, such as Touré, who is available at a much cheaper price. United ready to strike Touré, 20, has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in the Bundesliga after a breakout season for Hoffenheim, scoring five goals and assisting another 12 in 32 appearances. Having played alongside Amad at the Africa Cup of Nations, the Ivory Coast international is an old-school winger who operates primarily on the left. Nicknamed ‘The Hurricane’, he possesses devastating speed, clocking in as one of the fastest players in Germany with a top speed around 36 km/h. The youngster is not simply a pace merchant, though; rather, he offers dizzying dribbling and the ability to turn his opposite number inside or out, while showing increased maturity in decision-making on the ball. A left-footed winger who plays on his stronger side is a rarity in the age of inverted forwards, but this is the exact profile United want to bring more balance to Michael Carrick’s attack. Africa Foot reveals Newcastle have “entered into direct talks” with Hoffenheim, with the Magpies considering it a “priority to strengthen their left flank” after the £70 million sale of Anthony Gordon to FC Barcelona. But the Red Devils are preparing a stunning hijack as INEOS consider Touré a “perfect” match to the existing forwards at Old Trafford. “According to exclusive information from Africafoot, Manchester United are now seriously pushing to secure the services of the Ivorian prodigy. The Red Devils, undergoing a rebuild under Michael Carrick, are looking to inject young and dynamic attacking talent into their squad. Touré’s profile – speed, vision, and creativity – perfectly matches the characteristics they are seeking for Manchester United’s left flank.” This mirrors a report relayed by The Peoples Person which claimed United’s recruitment team consider Toure the “missing piece” of their attacking jigsaw. Final Thoughts Having faced the disappointment of missing out on Champions League qualification on the final day of the season, Hoffenheim’s negotiating position for Toure has been weakened. Die Kraichgauer are understood to be asking for a fee in the region of £34m, well within United’s budget. If INEOS can pull off a sensational raid which strengthens the attack and weakens a direct rival at the same time, it will be another coup for the hierarchy ahead of a defining summer window for their tenure. The midfield rebuild is well underway with a starter ordered and the main course on the way. Now it looks if the left wing is next on the menu. Featured image by Alex Grimm 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 ready to seal deal for another South American midfield maestro after Ederson agreement – report
A clear timeline has emerged for when Manchester United will officially wrap up a deal for Colombian wonderkid Cristian Orozco. Transfer focus Since assuming operational control of United in February 2024, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have placed a greater emphasis on signing the best talents in football, rather than solely focusing on already-established superstars. Over the past few windows, United have brought in the likes of Sekou Kone, Diego Leon, Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro, Patrick Dorgu and Chido Obi, just to mention a few names. These signings are viewed as low-risk, high-reward acquisitions. They are believed to possess first-team potential, which is why United bring them in and look to nurture them. Orozco belongs in that group. The defensive midfielder is viewed as one of the brightest prospects coming out of Colombia right now. He played a crucial role last year to help his nation reach the final of the U17 South American Championship. He has also picked up some first-team experience at Fortaleza CEIF, where he was included in 11 matchday squads last season. Out of those, he made four appearances: two of them as a starter and the other two coming from the bench. A preliminary agreement was struck between United and Fortaleza CEIF for Orozco to seal a switch to Old Trafford. However, the move could not be completed immediately as he was still under 18, meaning he continued to play for his current side. Now, the Manchester Evening News have confirmed that the deal will be completed next month. Orozco transfer timeline The news outlet states, “Manchester United will complete the signing of teenage midfielder Cristian Orozco next month.” “Orozco was welcomed to Manchester in December and shown around Carrington and Old Trafford, and the youngster’s trip included a taste of training sessions with United’s academy teams.” The MEN has confirmed that Orozco’s performances in the U17 South American Championship were what brought him to United’s attention and initially sparked the club’s interest. Upon his arrival, Orozco will likely replicate the pathway taken by Kone and Leon: first, a period with the youth teams to acclimatise to Manchester, followed by a push for first-team involvement. He comes hot on the heels of midfield star Ederson, whose switch from Atalanta was finally completed following weeks of negotiations. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
United hit jackpot in pursuit of “untouchable” Chelsea star as Blues open door to cut-price deal – report
Manchester United’s hopes of striking a deal for Chelsea starlet Josh Acheampong have taken a sharp twist, if the latest report is to be believed. The Untouchable Acheampong, 20, is seen as one of the best prospects to emerge from Chelsea’s esteemed academy in recent years, offering the prototype of a modern defender. Standing 6’3″, with an excellent blend of physical and technical qualities, the England under-21 international is rated incredibly highly at Stamford Bridge. He operates primarily as a centre-back but can also play at right-back, and made 29 appearances in a chaotic campaign for the Blues which saw both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior lose their jobs. Xabi Alonso is now the man at the helm in west London, with the Spanish tactician understood to already view the youngster as an important building block in his new side, leading to reports that Chelsea consider him “untouchable” amid growing interest. United are one admirer, with the Red Devils planning for a long-term successor to Harry Maguire after the 33-year-old put pen to paper on a one-year contract extension in April. Manchester City and Bayern Munich are two other heavyweights with an eye on the Cobham graduate, who transfer expert Ben Jacobs reveals is “interested in exploring options if he feels he’s not going to be getting regular game time next season.” The Price is Right Sports Boom now claims inside sources at Stamford Bridge indicate Chelsea would in fact be “prepared to listen to offers” if their valuation – understood to be around £25 million – is met. The Blues have become notorious for spending big in the transfer market since the consortium BlueCo took charge in 2022, but these massive outlays are only possible by consistently selling the club’s best academy talent, as this generates ‘pure profit’ from a PSR perspective. The fact that Chelsea have missed out on European football completely this season leaves their financial situation fragile and their squad bloated. Difficult decisions will need to be made, with Acheampong looking like he may be a victim of this. The report states Brentford have “entered the race” for the defender, having opened “early discussions over a deal” with their local rival. Arsenal, Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United are mentioned as other suitors, while newly promoted Coventry City are interested in a loan deal. Brentford officials are said to be “hoping they can negotiate a deal closer to the £18million-£20million mark, believing there is significant value in a player they view as one of the country’s most exciting young defenders.” But if Acheampong is unexpectedly available for a cut-price transfer, Manchester United will surely already be preparing a raid before the Bees, or one of their other Premier League competitors, gets the chance to strike first. 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 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.
Great move for both parties: Scholes names which one of United’s sworn enemies Rashford should join
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes believes Marcus Rashford could be a fine fit at Arsenal. The Red Devils are looking to offload the English forward, who spent last season on loan at Barcelona. Rashford was a prominent figure in United’s starting XI after breaking into the first team under former manager Louis van Gaal in the 2015/16 season. However, the player’s troubles began after Ruben Amorim took charge at Old Trafford in November 2024. The Portuguese head coach developed a frosty relationship with the Englishman and oversaw his temporary departure to Aston Villa in January 2025. An impressive loan spell at Villa Park failed to improve Rashford’s situation, and he joined the Catalans on another temporary deal. The 28 year old was outstanding for the LaLiga champions last season, registering 14 goals and 14 assists, and helping them win the league and the Supercopa de Espana. However, Barcelona have so far been reluctant to trigger a €30 million option to sign him permanently. With reports suggesting that the Catalans are plotting a cut-price move, Rashford’s future remains uncertain ahead of the summer. The Englishman, however, is not short of admirers. Rashford is proven in the Premier League Rashford has registered 89 goals and 42 assists in 297 appearances in the Premier League, making him a lucrative target for English clubs as well. Appearances (Sub)297 (76) Goals89 Assists42 Attack xG80.93 xA26.25 Touches in the Opposition Box1,320 Penalties (Scored)11 (9) Hit Woodwork18 Free Kicks (Scored)50 (52) Crosses (Completed %)314 (15%) Possession Passes (Completed %)6,416 (79%) Long Passes (Completed %)318 (58%) Corners Taken117 Physical Minutes Played20,116 Dribbles (Completed %)925 (46%) Duels Won994 Aerial Duels Won152 Defence Total Tackles153 Interceptions64 Blocks12 Discipline Red Cards1 Yellow Cards24 Fouls164 Offsides129 Own Goals0 Source: Premier League website. Recent reports have suggested that Chelsea and Arsenal are among his suitors, although Newcastle United have distanced themselves from the player. The Gunners are looking to further improve their attack after a disappointing defeat to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League final. Rashford’s Premier League pedigree is likely to appeal to Mikel Arteta as well, and Scholes has now provided his views on the matter. Rashford’s United return unlikely Scholes was recently part of a conversation on The Good, The Bad & The Ugly podcast, where Arsenal’s interest in Rashford was discussed. When pressed on the matter, the Ginger Prince responded: “That would be a great move, a great move for both parties. I think Arsenal would be a great move for him and the club.” Amorim’s departure and the subsequent appointment of Michael Carrick have generated talk about the English forward’s possible return to the Theatre of Dreams. Rashford previously worked with Carrick during former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reign, further fuelling speculation of a reunion. However, Scholes suggested that the Red Devils no longer want the player to return, adding: “No, it very rarely happens, a big player like that going to a big club and then coming back. They very rarely come back and I don’t think United will really want him back.” Final Thoughts United will be reluctant to strengthen a direct rival by allowing Rashford to make the move to the Emirates. Meanwhile, the player reportedly has his heart set on a move to Camp Nou, which could also have a bearing on his future. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that the Red Devils are ready to accept Barcelona’s reduced proposal for the Englishman, which could finally put an end to this saga. 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 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.
