Manchester United have opted not to engage in a bidding war with Manchester City for Newcastle midfielder Elliot Anderson, instead focusing their efforts on securing deals for Mateus Fernandes and Alex Scott, according to recent reports.
United's Shift in Transfer Strategy
The Red Devils had considered a move for Anderson this summer, but Manchester City's rejected bid of £120 million, including add-ons, prompted United to reassess their priorities. Rather than competing with their local rivals, United are now pursuing alternatives who are keen on joining Michael Carrick's squad.
Reports indicate that Anderson himself prefers a move to City over United, further solidifying the club's decision to look elsewhere.
Fernandes and Scott as Prime Targets
United have already initiated talks for Fernandes, but West Ham United are demanding a hefty £80 million transfer fee. Fernandes, who joined West Ham from Southampton last summer for £38 million plus £4 million in add-ons, has attracted interest from several top clubs following West Ham's relegation from the Premier League, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain.
In Spain, reports suggest that Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who returned to the club after Florentino Perez's re-election as president, is keen on signing Fernandes as part of his midfield overhaul this summer.
Similarly, Bournemouth are holding out for an £80 million fee for Alex Scott, who has drawn interest from United and Liverpool. The 22-year-old was one of Bournemouth's standout performers under Andoni Iraola last season. Although he was not included in England's World Cup squad, Scott has traveled to the United States with the team to assist with preparations.
United have already agreed a £35 million deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta but remain in the market for an additional midfielder this summer.
