Manchester United eye three midfielders to rebuild the middle in the Carrick era
With Michael Carrick in charge and the midfield in tatters, Manchester United face their most decisive transfer summer in years. The departure of Casemiro and the serious knee injury to Manuel Ugarte during the 2026 World Cup left a huge hole in the sector – and Old Trafford wants to plug it with speed and judgement.
What the Red Devils need – and why it is urgent
Carrick’s philosophy demands possession control, organised pressing and quick transitions. For that, the board has set two non-negotiable profiles: a midfielder capable of playing at least 40 matches per season and a versatile player who works alongside Kobbie Mainoo. Targets such as Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali have already been ruled out – they went to rivals. Time is pressing.
The three names at the top of the list
Carlos Baleba, of Brighton, leads the preferences. The 22-year-old Cameroonian combines physical robustness with dribbling quality that is unusual for a holding midfielder – a rarity on the market. Despite a turbulent 2025-2026 season surrounded by rumours, he is still seen as the closest replacement to Casemiro’s profile, with real potential for growth under Carrick’s guidance.
The second name is Mamadou Sangare, of Lens. More cerebral than physical, the midfielder had a remarkable season in Ligue 1: two goals and two assists in the last nine games, plus a game-reading ability that reminded specialists of Aurélien Tchouaméni. The point of concern is the less imposing physique, which still leads to unnecessary fouls. But the talent is there.
Alex Scott, of Bournemouth, completes the trio. Shaped by Andoni Iraola, the Englishman has developed an elegant style of playing out of the press with the ball at his feet – something that connects directly with Mainoo’s game. The pairing would be young, creative and technically refined. The question of aerial play, however, still has no answer.
Alternative plans and the long-term project
Beyond the three priorities, United have stitched together deals with Ederson, of Atalanta, and Andrey Santos, of Chelsea. Ederson brings energy and attacking presence in the 4-2-3-1 that Carrick wants to consolidate. Santos, in turn, directly reinforces the holding role – an extra layer of security for the sector.
At heart, United are not just buying players. They are trying to recover an identity lost in recent years. Baleba, Sangare or Scott – each in his own way – could be the piece that makes Carrick’s system truly work. The summer will tell which of them is chosen.
