Manchester United Plan £150m Midfield Overhaul with Three Signings Targeted

Manchester United are preparing for a major midfield rebuild this summer, with plans in place to invest heavily in new signings as part of a wider squad restructure ahead of next season.

According to Daily Mail, The club are expected to allocate a significant portion of their transfer budget to strengthening the centre of the pitch, with internal discussions indicating that up to three midfielders could be signed if finances allow. A total outlay in the region of £150 million has been outlined as a possible scenario, although final decisions will depend on player sales and overall budget flexibility.

A key part of the plan involves replacing Casemiro, whose contract is due to expire at the end of the season. The Brazilian has been an experienced presence in midfield, but the club are moving towards a younger profile and have earmarked around £80 million for a leading replacement. This signing is expected to play a central role in shaping the next phase of the team’s development.

Elliot Anderson has emerged as a primary target, although securing his services could prove difficult. Nottingham Forest are understood to value the midfielder at more than £100 million, while Manchester City are also monitoring his situation closely. The level of competition and the potential fee involved have led United to assess alternative options.

Among the players being considered are Carlos Baleba of Brighton & Hove Albion and Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace. Both have impressed in the Premier League and are viewed as capable of contributing at a higher level. Sandro Tonali has also been on the shortlist, although interest in the Newcastle United midfielder has cooled slightly in recent weeks.

Aurelien Tchouameni remains another option under consideration, but a deal appears unlikely at present as the midfielder is keen to extend his stay with Real Madrid. The situation has encouraged United’s recruitment team to continue exploring a wider pool of candidates in the market.

The club are also planning for further changes in midfield beyond the replacement of Casemiro. Manuel Ugarte is expected to leave if a suitable offer is received, with United aiming to recover a significant portion of the fee paid to Paris Saint-Germain two years ago. Around £40 million has been set aside to bring in another midfielder in that case, providing additional depth and competition.

Mateus Fernandes is among the players being monitored as part of this second tier of targets. The West Ham United midfielder has attracted attention due to his versatility and recent development. Alex Scott and Tyler Adams, both of AFC Bournemouth, have also been identified as potential options who could fit into the squad at a similar price range.

A third addition in midfield remains a possibility, with a more modest budget of around £20 million likely to be allocated if the club decide to expand their options further. Shea Charles, currently at Southampton, has been tracked by United scouts as part of this process. The Northern Ireland international is viewed as a developing player who could benefit from a step up.

Despite these plans, the extent of United’s activity in midfield will depend heavily on the overall transfer budget. The club are also targeting reinforcements in several other positions, including a left-sided forward, a left-back, a central defender and a reserve goalkeeper. Balancing these priorities will be essential as recruitment decisions are finalised.

Qualification for the Champions League has strengthened United’s financial position, with participation in the competition expected to generate more than £100 million in additional revenue. This boost has increased the club’s capacity to invest, although careful planning remains necessary to ensure resources are used effectively.

Player sales are expected to play a significant role in funding the rebuild. Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford and Andre Onana are among those who could attract substantial transfer fees. Joshua Zirkzee is another player who may be available, depending on offers received.

The club are also looking to reduce the wage bill, with several departures expected. Casemiro’s contract expiry will remove one of the highest salaries, while Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia and Altay Bayindir are all candidates to leave. These changes are intended to create both financial flexibility and space within the squad.

Kobbie Mainoo remains a central figure in United’s long-term plans after signing a new contract. His emergence has provided a foundation for the midfield rebuild, with incoming players expected to complement his style and support his continued development.

Recruitment staff continue to assess targets and monitor market conditions as the summer window approaches. Final decisions will be influenced by negotiations, availability of players and the outcome of potential departures. The scale of the planned changes reflects the club’s intention to reshape the squad with a focus on balance, depth and long-term sustainability.