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Manchester United Pushing for Midfield Shake Up

Manchester United appear set for another significant midfield rebuild in 2026, with talkSPORT reporting that the club are exploring options to strengthen the heart of Ruben Amorim’s side. Credit to Alex Crook for talkSPORT for outlining the evolving shortlist and the growing feeling that change in midfield is inevitable. The report notes that “Manchester United are open to adding two new midfielders in 2026” as Amorim looks to reshape his squad with more intensity, pace and physical presence.

Amorim is understood to be assessing every midfield role, particularly with several current players facing uncertain futures. The piece highlights United’s concerns that “Kobbie Mainoo’s long-term future is uncertain, while Bruno Fernandes could still be sold next summer.” Casemiro is also approaching a decisive moment, his contract expiring at the end of this season, although “it remains possible he extends his stay beyond the end of this season despite interest from both Brazilian and Saudi Pro League clubs.”

Midfield Profiles On United’s Radar

United’s interest stretches across both the Premier League and Europe, with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba at the top end of the shortlist. The article states “Brighton have entirely ruled out a January sale”, a stance that suggests any move for the Cameroon international will require patience. At 21, Baleba fits the club’s long term recruitment model and is admired for his athleticism and ball carrying, qualities Amorim has been keen to prioritise.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is also in the frame, although his reluctance to move mid season could stall progress. TalkSPORT share that the England midfielder is “reticent to leave Nottingham Forest mid season”, particularly with Forest battling at the wrong end of the table. A source close to the situation added that “if he continues his current form he’ll be part of the England squad for the 2026 World Cup”, which could influence his timing.

Bundesliga and La Liga Options Emerging

Further afield, Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller is attracting serious attention. The 24 year old is seen as a tactically intelligent option who suits Amorim’s structured style. The report notes that “Stiller has a release clause of around £35million”, although Stuttgart can reportedly pay to remove that clause for a far smaller figure. That could accelerate interest in January or next summer.

Of all the names linked, Conor Gallagher appears the most attainable. The former Chelsea midfielder is struggling for game time at Atletico Madrid and “is open to a return to England, having struggled for minutes this season.” United tried a loan in the summer, but Atleti “were only prepared to sanction a permanent sale”. If the price drops below the current “fee in excess of £35m”, United may revisit the opportunity.

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Chelsea Hold Firm Over Andrey Santos

The most ambitious target on the list is Andrey Santos. Chelsea remain adamant that Santos is staying put, with talkSPORT making clear “Chelsea’s position is clear: Santos is simply not for sale.” The Brazilian is already featuring regularly and appears settled. United will monitor the situation, but a 2026 exit looks unlikely unless circumstances dramatically change.

The scale of this shortlist emphasises that Amorim sees midfield evolution as crucial to making United competitive on multiple fronts again. The blend of Premier League proven talent, rising potential and European tactical intelligence suggests a clear plan has been put in motion.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United supporters perspective, this update feels both exciting and concerning in equal measure. On one hand, it is refreshing to see proactive planning rather than reactive scrambling in windows. Amorim clearly has a defined profile of player in mind and wants energy, drive, vision and speed through midfield. After years of imbalance, you can see what he is trying to build.

Losing senior figures like Fernandes or Casemiro would sting emotionally, although many fans will admit that cycles eventually end. If the manager can replace them with hungry, modern midfielders who can press, carry and dictate play, it could be the right call for the next era of United. A fan I spoke to said, “If Gallagher wants to fight for the shirt and bring that energy we have lacked, then I am all for it.”

Baleba, Wharton, Anderson and Santos all scream long term strategy, not short term stop gaps. That is the most encouraging part. However, a typical United worry remains. Can the club execute these deals properly and early, or will we again reach June with multiple sagas playing out in public?

For once, the shortlist feels sensible and not scattergun. If Amorim gets two of these names and keeps Casemiro for depth, the midfield could look transformed by summer 2026.