Report: Manchester United eyeing summer moves for three Premier League stars | OneFootball

Manchester United summer rebuild priorities take shape

Manchester United believe the next phase of their rebuild begins this summer. The message from inside Old Trafford is unmistakable, midfield first, questions later, according to The Athletic.

Midfield rebuild drives summer planning

Michael Carrick’s interim status does not prevent his influence. Officially head coach only until season’s end, he has made clear he is willing to advise on what is shaping up as United’s defining summer task. With Casemiro’s exit confirmed and Ugarte’s future uncertain, recruitment is expected to focus on two midfield additions rather than one.

Photo IMAGO

The admiration list is revealing. Elliot Anderson is considered the preferred option, while Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton are also highly rated. Their respective clubs, Nottingham Forest, Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace, were never likely to sell mid season, but summer negotiations are expected to be more realistic.

Photo: IMAGO

Photo IMAGO

Photo IMAGO

Financial room shaped by Europe

Money will be available, though the scale hinges on Champions League qualification. European football’s elite competition would ease pressure significantly. Without it, United may again rely on their revolving credit facility. Having already borrowed £295m of a possible £350m, there remains £55m capacity, but this is a lever the club would rather not pull repeatedly.

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For too long, United’s recruitment has felt reactive, driven by name recognition rather than balance. Prioritising midfield acknowledges the obvious. Control, athleticism and tempo have been missing ingredients, especially in big away games where United have struggled to dictate rhythm.

The interest in Anderson, Baleba and Wharton suggests a shift towards players who can grow with the side rather than arrive as finished stars. That is encouraging. Fans have watched expensive short term fixes fail to move the needle, so a focus on profile and suitability feels overdue.

The financial reality is less comfortable. Borrowing again without Champions League football would underline how costly past mistakes have been. Yet many fans would accept short term pain if it leads to a smarter rebuild.

Ultimately, this summer feels pivotal. Get the midfield right and the entire team functions better. Get it wrong and another season risks drifting. For supporters, that is the real pressure behind every name on the shortlist.