Manchester United are exploring midfield targets for the summer transfer window, with Casemiro set to leave Old Trafford.
Manchester United have enjoyed a successful start to 2026 in the Premier League, with nine games unbeaten so far this calendar year and sitting third in the league.
The midfield earlier in the season was a clear issue under Ruben Amorim, with the pivot of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro being overrun.
However, under Michael Carrick, the shift from a midfield two to a midfield three has been effective. Kobbie Mainoo not only adds the extra physicality and legs required, but also an extra level of technical ability and calmness that allows Fernandes to remain higher up the pitch.
Despite this, it is no surprise to see the Red Devils linked to more midfielders, as depth is certainly lacking, with Manuel Ugarte the only remaining fit senior midfielder not in the starting lineup, as Mason Mount is currently out injured.
United monitor Adams
The Red Devils have constantly been linked to the likes of Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton, but these would likely be direct replacements for Casemiro.
Aside from them, the club need effective squad options. Tyler Adams suits that bracket perfectly in terms of a Premier League experience with Leeds United and now Bournemouth, as well as his player profile: able to disrupt play with his tenacity, calmness on the ball and has also shown leadership qualities for his country.
It is no surprise to see that United have been monitoring Adams’ performances, according to The Daily Mail Sport. Bournemouth would reportedly want £40 million before considering a sale for one of their key men.
The midfielder has previously spoken about his dream of playing at Old Trafford when speaking to the Men in Blazers podcast.
He said: “You dream of nights playing at Old Trafford against Man United. Those are the biggest games you can play in the Premier League.”
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Potential injury issues
Adams is no doubt a talented player and would come in to elevate the technical and talent level of the squad, with midfield depth being something the club have lacked for years.
However, his injury record is somewhat cause for concern as he has missed 57 games since joining Bournemouth in 2023 for club and country, with a history of multiple muscular injuries. He is also returning from a knee injury he suffered in the 4-4 draw with United, where he tore his medial ligament.
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It would be a gamble on his fitness should United go for Adams, but the club should look to potentially avoid a situation similar to the one with Mount. His injury history was clear to see, but the club failed to acknowledge it.
Perhaps a deal for Joao Gomes for Wolverhampton Wanderers, who recently starred in their 2-1 victory against Liverpool, could be a better option. He would be available for a similar fee and perhaps cheaper should Wolves go down, and has a much better availability record.
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