Manchester United chase three English midfielders to bolster squad | OneFootball

Manchester United eye six midfielders as Ruben Amorim plans January reshuffle

Manchester United are preparing for another significant step in their rebuild under Ruben Amorim, with plans to strengthen the heart of their midfield during the January transfer window. The club’s recruitment team have identified six potential targets — Conor Gallagher, Angelo Stiller, Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, Andrey Santos and Elliot Anderson — as they look to add quality and depth to a department that has struggled for consistency this season.

Midfield overhaul under consideration

Since taking charge at Old Trafford, Amorim has prioritised control, structure and technical balance in midfield. However, despite flashes of quality from Bruno Fernandes and the growing maturity of Kobbie Mainoo, United’s lack of rotation options has been exposed in key fixtures. The Portuguese manager is keen to add at least one reinforcement in January, with a second signing possible if departures occur.

Club sources suggest Amorim has made it clear that the current group needs more dynamism and resilience, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding Casemiro’s long-term future. Manchester United’s decision-makers are understood to be weighing both immediate-impact signings and players who could develop under Amorim’s demanding style of play.

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Six names on the shortlist

At the top of United’s agenda is Conor Gallagher, currently thriving with Atlético de Madrid. The 25-year-old’s energy, pressing intelligence and Premier League pedigree make him a natural fit for Amorim’s system. United would likely need to spend around £43 million (€50m) to secure his signature.

Angelo Stiller, the 24-year-old Stuttgart midfielder, is also under serious consideration. Known for his tactical discipline and composure in possession, the German international is valued at roughly £52 million (€60m). Meanwhile, Carlos Baleba of Brighton — one of the Premier League’s most promising young midfielders — remains a long-term dream target, though his reported £85 million (€100m) price tag could deter any immediate move.

United are also keeping a close eye on Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace. The 21-year-old has impressed with his composure and ball-winning ability, but his rising valuation mirrors that of Baleba. Andrey Santos, currently with Chelsea, presents a more affordable opportunity. Still only 21, the Brazilian is valued at around £43 million and has been monitored closely by United’s South American scouts.

Completing the shortlist is Elliot Anderson, 23, who has impressed with Nottingham Forest this season. His versatility and work rate make him a compelling medium-term option, with an estimated value of around £52 million.

Balancing ambition with financial realism

While Amorim is determined to upgrade his midfield, there is caution within Old Trafford about overextending financially in January. Sources close to the club indicate that any spending will be guided by outgoings, with potential sales creating space for one or two key additions. United’s leadership remain adamant that recruitment must align with Amorim’s long-term vision rather than short-term fixes.

The situation surrounding Mainoo, who has drawn interest from several European clubs, could further influence January plans. Should the academy graduate move on, United would be expected to fast-track at least one incoming midfielder to maintain balance in the squad.

Strategic choices ahead for Amorim and United

Manchester United’s project under Ruben Amorim is entering a decisive phase. The upcoming transfer window represents both an opportunity and a test of discipline — whether the club can blend financial prudence with decisive squad improvement. With Gallagher, Stiller, Baleba, Wharton, Santos and Anderson all on their radar, United are clearly seeking a blend of Premier League experience and continental flair.

A reshaped midfield could be the cornerstone of Amorim’s rebuild, offering greater tactical flexibility and energy in a league that demands both. If United execute their plan with precision, January could mark the turning point in restoring stability and ambition at Old Trafford.