Manchester United have been in contact with a midfielder that Bruno Fernandes wanted them to sign back in the 2021 summer transfer window.
Manchester United are set to target midfield signings this summer, with Rúben Amorim still yet to recruit in that position since arriving in November 2024.
Amorim generally lines up with a two-man midfield, relying on Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Manuel Ugarte, though he has also suggested Mason Mount could operate there.
With Casemiro’s contract expiring at the end of the campaign and the long-term futures of Mainoo, Ugarte, and Fernandes uncertain, fresh additions will be essential.
Carlos Baleba of Brighton has emerged as a leading candidate, but his £100 million price tag and United’s need for multiple signings mean the club are also weighing up other options.
United in contact with Neves’ agent
United don’t just need more midfielders, but they also need Premier League experience. According to TBR Football, this could come in the form of Rúben Neves.
The report states that Neves is looking to move back to European football in 2026, with the 28-year-old feeling that he is about to enter the prime years of his career.
A number of clubs, including United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle, have all been in contact with the player’s representatives, with previous reports putting Neves’ possible January transfer price at £17.3 million.
Neves will be a free agent in the summer, so his current Saudi Pro League side, Al-Hilal, may look to offload him in January rather than in the summer.
Fernandes pushed for Neves’ transfer in 2021
United needing new midfielders is not a fresh story – there have been arguments that the club have not had a stable and reliable defensive midfielder since Michael Carrick retired in 2018.
Fernandes is one man who has pushed for new midfield partners on multiple occasions, with the Portuguese international keen on bringing in his compatriot back in 2021.
Neves’ move from Al-Hilal could be a great piece of business for United, as it would be a safe option of signing a player who knows the league, still has plenty to give, and can help progress play.
However, questions will surround Neves’ athleticism. It’s been shown already that, to survive playing in a midfield two under Amorim, you have to be very quick and athletic, whereas Neves has previously shown himself to be a player on the slower side, which could be cause for concern.
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