Manchester United are firmly setting their sights on strengthening their central midfield in 2026, with the club's scouts actively monitoring a diverse seven-man shortlist of potential signings.
The Core Problem and Summer Setback
Despite manager Ruben Amorim currently relying on the experienced pairing of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, the club recognises this is not a sustainable long-term strategy. This pressing need prompted a serious move for Brighton's Carlos Baleba during the last summer transfer window.
An official approach was made for the 21-year-old Cameroonian international, but the deal collapsed after Brighton set a price tag deemed too high by the Old Trafford hierarchy.
The Seven-Man Shortlist Revealed
According to an ESPN report, United's search is casting a wide net across Europe. While Baleba remains a player of interest, his form has reportedly dipped this season, with Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler admitting the summer speculation affected the young midfielder.
The Red Devils are also keen on other established Premier League talents. The list includes Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, both of whom are highly regarded at the club.
Wolves' Brazilian international duo, Andre and Joao Gomes, are also being closely tracked. In a move that would see a return to English football, Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher is another name that tempts United.
Perhaps the most intriguing option is Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller. The 24-year-old German international, who joined Stuttgart from Hoffenheim in 2023, represents a more left-field candidate for the United midfield.
Contract Situations and Managerial Demands
In a separate development, it has emerged this week that United are also 'keeping tabs' on a familiar face: James Garner. The former United academy graduate is out of contract at Everton at the end of the current season, potentially making him a cost-effective option.
Meanwhile, Amorim has publicly addressed the struggles of another midfielder in his squad, Manuel Ugarte. The manager has explicitly told the Uruguayan that he must improve his performances in training to earn a spot in the first team.
'You can sense a lot of very good players come here, and sometimes they struggle,' Amorim stated. 'He is struggling at the moment but it is our job to try to help... He needs to adapt, and he needs to improve, especially in training.'
With a clear need for midfield reinforcement, Manchester United's extensive scouting work suggests a major acquisition in the centre of the park is a top priority for the 2026 transfer window.
