The summer of 2026 is shaping up to be a truly explosive transfer window at Old Trafford, especially in the midfield department – where Manchester United are preparing for a full-scale revolution under the INEOS regime and the current coaching setup (following Ruben Amorim’s departure and Michael Carrick’s interim return). With Casemiro now confirmed to leave on a free transfer at the end of the 2025/26 season when his contract expires, and Manuel Ugarte also increasingly likely to depart due to underwhelming performances, the Red Devils have no choice but to go big in rebuilding the engine room.
Casemiro, the Brazilian veteran who once anchored the midfield with 146 appearances and 21 goals, will walk away as a free agent – a move announced early to allow him to secure his next destination (potentially MLS, Saudi Arabia, or a return to Brazil). His exit frees up around £350,000 per week in wages, creating significant financial room for new signings. Ugarte, signed from PSG for £42 million in the summer of 2024, has failed to meet expectations – often reduced to a bench role and criticized for his adaptation struggles. Ajax inquired about a loan in January 2026 but were turned down to preserve squad depth; however, if a solid offer arrives this summer, he could be sold (possibly even in a swap involving young talents like Sunderland’s Noah Sadiki).
The current midfield is thin and unbalanced: Kobbie Mainoo remains the brightest young star (currently in talks for a new, significantly improved contract to lock in his long-term future), while Bruno Fernandes continues to be the heartbeat of the team (despite constant Saudi rumors, United are determined to keep him at least one more season ahead of the 2026 World Cup). But relying on just these two pillars isn’t enough – especially with Casemiro and potentially Ugarte gone, United need 3-4 new midfielders to create a balanced, dynamic unit capable of both defensive solidity and attacking support.
According to reliable sources including The Sun, FootballTransfers, Planet Football, and Fabrizio Romano, United already have a clear shortlist for summer 2026, prioritizing proven Premier League-quality No.6s and box-to-box engines. The two standout targets are:
- Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest): Widely regarded as United’s No.1 priority. The 23-year-old has been outstanding at Forest (playing every single Premier League minute this season), offering versatility (box-to-box with defensive nous and goal threat). United are ready to battle Manchester City for his signature, even if the price tag could climb toward £100 million. Anderson’s power, consistency, and England potential make him a dream fit.
- Carlos Baleba (Brighton): The ultimate “dream duo” target – if United land both Anderson and Baleba, it’s game over! The 22-year-old Cameroonian is the ideal No.6 – strong in duels, excellent at shielding the backline, very much in the mold of Moises Caicedo. United already inquired last summer but were priced out; now they feel more confident, potentially willing to pay £80–100 million. John Obi Mikel has called Baleba “fantastic” and a perfect replacement for Casemiro’s defensive presence.
Other names on the radar include Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) – the young English technician with superb passing range – and Alex Scott (Bournemouth) – versatile and creative. Names like Ruben Neves or Wilfred Ndidi have been mentioned but aren’t top priorities. The plan is 2–3 new arrivals (possibly 4 if Bruno unexpectedly leaves), focusing heavily on Premier League-proven players to minimize adaptation risk.
Crucially: Keep Mainoo and Bruno at all costs. Mainoo (contract until 2027 + option) is in line for a major salary bump and is described as “one of the top priorities” after returning to the starting XI under Carrick. Bruno remains the spiritual leader – Saudi interest persists, but United want him committed through at least summer 2027 for stability.
Summer 2026 is going to be hectic: wage bill relief, midfield rebuild, top-4 push, and Champions League qualification all on the line. Landing the Anderson + Baleba pair would be transformative – a youthful, balanced trio of Mainoo (creative box-to-box), Anderson (high-energy all-rounder), and Baleba (defensive rock), with Bruno pulling the strings. That would mark a defining moment for the INEOS era.
The Red Devils are building for the future – this summer isn’t just about signings; it’s about shaping a title-contending squad. What do you think, United fans? Would Anderson and Baleba be the perfect midfield revamp? Let’s go! Glory, glory Manchester United!