Manchester United's Transfer Plans: Who's Next After Andrey Santos? (2026)

Manchester United's summer transfer window is heating up, with the club's midfield reinforcements taking center stage. With Casemiro's departure and Manuel Ugarte's injury, the Red Devils have been proactive in their pursuit of new talent. The latest addition is Brazilian star Ederson, who is expected to join for £38.8 million from Atalanta. This move will see him partner with his compatriot, Andrey Santos, who was secured from Chelsea for £50 million. Head coach Michael Carrick is also set to benefit from the free transfer of goalkeeper Karl Darlow from Leeds United.

However, despite these additions, there's a sense of expectancy among United fans for a star-calibre signing. The club is still in the market for an elite central midfielder, with several big names linked, including Elliot Anderson, Mateus Fernandes, and Sandro Tonali. Unfortunately, they lost out on these players to rival clubs due to the heavily inflated market. Now, they need to ensure they don't miss out on another potential world-class player by moving quickly for their third midfield signing.

Bournemouth's Alex Scott is the marquee addition United should pursue next. The 22-year-old, a future England international, has been on the club's radar for some time. His ball retention and duel-winning abilities impressed several Premier League clubs last term, and he would take Carrick's midfield up a level with his quality. The Cherries do not want to sell him this summer, but that's all the more reason for United to act fast and match the £80 million price tag. Reports suggest Scott would welcome a transfer to Old Trafford, giving United bosses the fuel they need to secure the deal.

If United successfully land Scott, they might then turn their attention to the forward line. They have already shown interest in signing a left winger, notably Crysencio Summerville, but Marcus Rashford's future will need to be resolved first, given his astronomical wages. The club's focus on midfield reinforcements is a strategic move, addressing a critical area of need. With the right additions, United could be set for a strong season, but the pressure is on to make the right choices and ensure a successful transfer window.

Manchester United's Transfer Plans: Who's Next After Andrey Santos? (2026)
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