All signs indicate that Manchester United will invest in midfield in 2026.
The Red Devils are coming off a fruitful summer, where the major focus was on improving a misfiring attack.
The Premier League giants invested heavily in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko to address the issue.
Diego Leon arrived to provide more cover to the wings, while Ruben Amorim also signed Senne Lammens on deadline day. The Belgian custodian is likely to become the new No. 1 at Old Trafford.
United were also expected to sign a new midfielder this summer. The Red Devils were linked with multiple stars, including Valencia’s Javi Guerra, but a deal failed to materialise.
Guerra has been quite impressive so far
Guerra has caught the eye with Valencia in recent seasons and fits the profile Amorim desires in midfield.
The Spaniard is a commanding presence in the middle of the park, providing energy and drive to the team. He is adept in attacking and defensive phases of play, earning him admirers at Old Trafford.
United apparently wanted to take advantage of the player’s contract standoff over the summer. There were reports that the Premier League giants had even agreed personal terms with the 22 year old ahead of a move.
However, the transfer never materialised, with Guerra signing a new deal until 2029 in August.
The Spaniard is likely to be on Amorim’s agenda in 2026 as well. However, it now appears that Real Madrid could spoil United’s plans.
Guerra is wanted at the Santiago Bernabeu
According to a report in Spain, as relayed by TEAMtalk, Los Blancos have put chief scout Juni Calafat on Guerra’s case as they plan a move next year.
The Spanish midfielder has a €100m release clause in his contract. However, given Valencia’s poor finances, a deal could be possible for half that amount, the report details.
Interestingly, Real Madrid may not be too keen to invest such a big amount in the young midfielder.
A separate report from the same publication adds that Los Blancos are likely to propose a swap deal between Guerra and Dani Ceballos.
However, it is believed that Valencia would prefer to raise funds from the sale instead, which could work to United’s advantage if INEOS are willing to snatch a highly-rated young talent from the jaws of the Spanish giant again.
Featured image Christian Hofer via Getty Images
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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. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
