Mateus Mane: United make major decision in pursuit of Wolves ace | OneFootball

Manchester United’s summer plans are gathering pace, with several key areas expected to be addressed. A new midfielder remains at the top of the priority list, while the Red Devils also want to sign a new left forward.

Meanwhile, INEOS also need to draw up succession plans for Bruno Fernandes, whose contract expires at the end of next season. The Portuguese was linked with an exit last summer and his future remains unclear at the moment.

The upcoming transfer window, therefore, represents a crucial opportunity for the Premier League giants to sustain their recent rise under caretaker manager Michael Carrick.

United have shown a preference for Premier League-proven talents in recent windows, while also injecting youthful energy into the squad. One player who fits both criteria and remains heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford is Mateus Mane.

Premier League’s rising star

Mane is slowly making his mark in the top tier of English football this season. The 18 year old joined Wolverhampton Wanderers’ academy in 2024 and was promoted to the first team last season.

Mane has taken his game to another level this campaign and has been a constant in the starting XI since December last year. The teenager has already registered two goals and one assist from 17 outings in the Premier League this season.

Mateus Mane Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Premier League website.

Mane has started the last 11 league games and is fast becoming a key figure for the Midlands club. The youngster can operate in central midfield, as a No. 10 or further forward, and could even be a long-term replacement for Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford.

A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Liverpool are also in the race and are willing to break the bank for Mane this summer, while United are keeping him under close watch. An update on the situation has now emerged.

United unwilling to match Mane’s asking price

According to Football Insider, both United and Liverpool are reluctant to meet Wolves’ £50 million valuation of the youngster. The report states: “Liverpool and Manchester United will not pay Wolves’ £50million asking price for starlet Mateus Mane this summer, sources have told Football Insider.”

“Wolves have no intention of letting go of the 18-year-old ahead of next season, but Premier League clubs are expected to test that resolve with summer offers for the starlet.”

“However, both Liverpool and Manchester United have decided that they will not be looking to meet the bottom club’s valuation for the attacking midfielder, as sources say that he is still seen as being too raw to justify such a significant fee.”

The Midlands club are at the bottom of the Premier League table with 11 games left to play, 17 points adrift of 17th-placed Nottingham Forest. Mane is under contract until 2029, and while Wolves are under no pressure to let him go, things could change if they end up getting relegated.

Final Thoughts

Mane fits United’s recent transfer strategy, so they are likely to keep a close watch on his performances for the rest of the season. The teenager’s price tag introduces considerable risk to the pursuit, but the Red Devils could be forced into action this summer if he continues his rapid rise.

Featured image Ben Roberts Photo via Getty Images

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