Manchester United and Man City are set to lock horns next summer as they both aim to sign one of the league’s most exciting midfielders.
After reinforcing their attack and securing a new goalkeeper, Manchester United are expected to focus on bringing in at least one midfielder next summer as Rúben Amorim continues to mould his squad.
United’s midfield has been a major talking point this season. Many believe Bruno Fernandes’ impact has waned since his move into a deeper pivot role, compared to his previous effectiveness as a central attacking midfielder.
Manuel Ugarte has also found it difficult to replicate the performances he produced under Amorim at Sporting, casting uncertainty over his long-term future at Old Trafford.
Casemiro, meanwhile, has experienced somewhat of a revival, playing a significant role in United’s campaign and starting all but two matches. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, it remains unclear whether the club will opt to extend the Brazilian’s deal.
Man City could hijack a potential Elliot Anderson transfer
During the summer, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba appeared to be United’s primary target, but the club were ultimately priced out of a deal, forcing them to delay strengthening a position that has been desperate for depth.
While Baleba remains a target, United have also stepped up their interest in Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson, but could be beaten to a move for the latter by their rivals, Man City.
Anderson has been described as a “special player” after becoming the first player in the past decade to have over 100 touches, over 10 ball recoveries, over 10 duels won, over five key passes and more than five successful dribbles in one match.
As reported by Sky Sport Switzerland, Man City are extremely interested in the Nottingham Forest midfielder, impressing their sporting director and City scouts, who have watched the 23-year-old over 10 times this season.
The outlet also reports that Anderson has already informed those around him that he’s giving priority to Manchester City for a future transfer, which would be a big blow for a prospective move to The Reds.
While it’s likely that the Englishman will move on from Forest this summer, any move will only materialise after the 2026 World Cup.
The only positive that United can take is that Forest’s demands for their star player are far higher than City’s valuations so far, refusing to offer the £100 million that is being demanded.
European football qualification is crucial this season
Manchester United have had a steady start to the season, going on a five-game unbeaten run before the November international break. Once Premier League action got back underway, they suffered a shock 1-0 loss to Everton, but bounced back by beating Crystal Palace 2-1.
As a result, Amorim’s side now find themselves seventh in the Premier League, but it is very tight at the top of the table, with just four points separating United from second-placed Manchester City.
It cannot be overstated how important it is for Old Trafford to be hosting European football next season, as it will have major ramifications on the players they will be able to sign.
A move for one of their major targets, Adam Wharton, hinges on whether United secure European football next season or not, while a move to Man Utd is a much more attractive proposition for any prospective targets should elite European football be offered to them.
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