Manchester United's midfield rebuild has encountered significant hurdles this summer, marked by the failure to secure signings for Mateus Fernandes and Elliot Anderson, alongside concerns over player availability and future roles.
The club was outbid by Tottenham for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, whose reported £85 million transfer fee was beyond Manchester United's willingness to commit without add-ons. Manchester City secured Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson for a reported £116 million, a fee Manchester United deemed uncompetitive.
These setbacks have intensified focus on other midfield targets. Bournemouth's Alex Scott is reportedly admired at Old Trafford, but faces competition from several Premier League clubs. Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Tottenham have also shown interest in the 22-year-old, whom Bournemouth is reluctant to sell and seeks to improve his contract. Another midfielder on Manchester United's list is Aurelien Tchouameni of Real Madrid, though his departure is uncertain following the return of Jose Mourinho as coach. Other names being monitored include Scott's Bournemouth teammate Tyler Adams and Felix Nmecha of Borussia Dortmund.
Compounding the midfield situation is a serious knee injury sustained by Manuel Ugarte while playing for Uruguay at the World Cup. While Ugarte was considered a potential departure this summer, his injury means he is expected to remain at the club for rehabilitation. His salary is reportedly covered under FIFA's club protection program due to the international duty injury, potentially preserving wage bill flexibility.
The club's transfer strategy also involves assessing the future of Marcus Rashford. Currently under contract for two more years, Rashford is prepared to return for pre-season training after loan spells with Aston Villa and Barcelona. However, his substantial weekly salary has led the club to explore potential sales around £40 million, though they are prepared for his return if no buyer is found. Barcelona has decided against activating his loan buy-out clause.
Beyond midfield and attacking positions, Manchester United is also looking to reinforce at left-back and potentially sign a backup goalkeeper. The defensive unit sees Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, and Lisandro Martinez entering the final year of their contracts, with decisions pending on their futures. Bruno Fernandes is also entering the final year of his contract, with the club holding an option for an extension and planning to open talks on a new deal.
Altay Bayindir's potential departure could facilitate the signing of a new backup goalkeeper, while any striker acquisition is contingent on offloading Joshua Zirkzee. Significant defensive overhauls are earmarked for future transfer windows, with next summer being a key period for reshaping that area of the squad.