Anderson vs Rogers: Scholes picks his preferred Man United target | OneFootball

Manchester United are eyeing both attacking and midfield reinforcements this summer, with Premier League-proven candidates dominating their wish list. The Red Devils have turned over a new leaf since the arrival of Michael Carrick in January.

The Englishman took over a team that had struggled to come to terms with former head coach Ruben Amorim’s controversial 3-4-3 system. With the Portuguese gone, the English giants reverted to the tried-and-tested 4-2-3-1 system under Carrick and embarked on a sizzling run.

United registered 12 wins and just two defeats under their former midfielder, securing third place in the Premier League. Carrick was initially brought in as caretaker manager, but INEOS handed him the full-time job before the end of the season.

The focus now is on providing the Englishman with the resources to mount a title challenge next season and fight for silverware. Among the Red Devils’ most urgent needs is a new midfielder, with Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson emerging as their dream signing.

United want the Premier League’s best players

Anderson is coming off a fantastic campaign with Forest and is one of the finest in his position in the Premier League right now. The Englishman’s ability to dominate the middle of the park and his all-action style of play make him a fine replacement for the departing Casemiro at Old Trafford.

The Brazilian midfielder was indispensable for United this season but will start a new chapter in his career this summer. Manuel Ugarte, who was brought in to replace the former Real Madrid star, has been a disappointment so far and is also expected to leave.

According to recent reports , the Red Devils are close to signing Atalanta midfielder Ederson this summer and are also eyeing a move for West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes to bolster their midfield. Anderson, though, remains their priority choice, even though previous reports suggest that he could be on his way to Manchester City.

The Englishman has registered four goals and five assists in 50 appearances across competitions for the West Bridgford club this season. The player is expected to cost over £100 million, which could also pose a problem for United.

Elliot Anderson Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

Meanwhile, United are also looking to add more bite to their attack before the start of the new season. Recent reports suggest that Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, who previously worked with Carrick at Middlesbrough, has emerged as an option for the job.

United will have to manage their resources well as they look to strengthen the squad to the best of their financial capabilities. Club legend Paul Scholes recently discussed the matter with his former team-mate Nicky Butt and revealed his preference between the two targets.

Scholes wants Anderson at United

Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Butt asked: “You can only sign one for United: Elliot Anderson or Morgan Rogers?”

Scholes opted for Anderson, and also explained the reasoning behind his choice. He said: “It’d have to be Elliot Anderson for me because I love Morgan Rogers, but he’s not going to play instead of Bruno Fernandes, is he? Same position [as Bruno].”

Final Thoughts

It is hard to argue with Scholes’ statement, especially with United expected to tie Fernandes down to a new deal. Should INEOS manage to beat City to Anderson’s signature this summer, the Red Devils will significantly strengthen their chances of challenging for the Premier League title.

Featured image Jack Thomas via Getty Images

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