Man United want wing-back, have midfielder targets – sources
MANCHESTER, England – Manchester United are preparing major squad changes next summer, with the club prioritising the signing of a top-level central midfielder and exploring options at wing-back, sources told ESPN on Tuesday. The recruitment plan includes multiple targets and is driven by a belief that the squad requires further upgrades despite significant recent spending.
United have begun assessing a number of midfield candidates, including Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba. Wolves midfield pair João Gomes and André, Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller and Atlético Madrid’s Conor Gallagher have also been scouted as the club explores a range of profiles for the position.
While central midfield remains the primary focus, club officials believe head coach Ruben Amorim needs greater depth at wing-back. Initial enquiries have been made for several possible signings in that role as United continue to reshape the squad to fit Amorim’s tactical structure.
The club expect to strengthen further next summer, backed by what they consider a secure financial position. A number of high-earning players are expected to depart in the next six months as part of the long-term restructuring strategy, with outgoings forming a key part of the transfer plan.
United will enter the January transfer window with caution and prefer to complete the majority of new business in the summer. However, sources emphasise that the club has not ruled out activity in January, with more than a month remaining before the window opens.
United spent more than £200 million on new signings last summer, including Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Šeško and Senne Lammens. Despite the investment, there is an acceptance among senior figures that Amorim is still working with a squad that lacks depth in key areas, highlighted by recent injuries to Cunha and Šeško.
United’s 1–0 defeat to Everton on Monday left them 10th in the Premier League, though the club remain only a point outside the top six as they prepare to visit Crystal Palace on Sunday. Amorim has publicly targeted a return to European competition next season, and the pursuit of further signings forms a central part of that ambition.
The planned overhaul signals United’s intent to continue their long-term rebuild under Amorim, with the search for a dominant midfielder and reliable wing-back viewed as essential to the team’s evolution in both personnel and playing style.