Manchester United's ambitious manager, Ruben Amorim, is making bold moves to revitalize the team, with two priority signings in his sights, including a Premier League star. After a dismal 15th-place finish last season – the club's worst Premier League performance ever – Amorim is determined to reshape the squad. But, will his plans come to fruition?
Since taking over from Erik ten Hag in November 2024, Amorim has faced a rollercoaster of a first year. Now, he's setting his sights on major improvements.
Elliot Anderson: The Top Target
According to reports from The Mirror, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson is at the top of Manchester United's wish list. Anderson is versatile, able to play as a defensive midfielder (No. 6) or a dynamic box-to-box midfielder. Forest is bracing for a fight to keep him. With his contract running until June 2029, they hold a strong negotiating position. However, his valuation has skyrocketed to around £75 million ($99m). United sees him as a more realistic target compared to other potential signings.
Anderson, who made his England debut in September, already has five senior caps and is being considered as a potential starter for the 2026 World Cup. England's manager, Thomas Tuchel, has been highly impressed by his maturity.
Following England's 2-0 win over Andorra, Tuchel praised Anderson, saying, "He’s just a very, very good football player. He has the physicality, he’s very mobile at No. 6. He has the body, he loves to defend, he loves to put his body inside to duels. He loves passing, he loves to break the lines, he’s very mobile in this game. It was a pleasure to see. "
Baleba Still in the Mix, but at What Price?
United hasn't lost interest in Brighton midfielder Baleba. The Cameroon international remains a key target, and the club considered a late move in the summer before Brighton stood firm. Having previously sold Moises Caicedo to Chelsea for £115m ($154m) in 2023, Brighton indicated that any deal for Baleba would require a similar financial commitment. United hesitated at the price and backed off, but Amorim still admires the 21-year-old's abilities. Baleba is open to the move, and United may revisit the possibility if negotiations for Anderson falter.
Other Options: Gallagher, Wharton, and Stiller
United's recruitment team is also exploring other midfield options. Conor Gallagher is seen as a potential short-term solution if he becomes available for loan in January. The Atletico Madrid midfielder is aiming for a spot in England's World Cup squad, and regular Premier League playing time could be crucial. Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton is also being monitored, although he recently signed a new contract. Another player under consideration is Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller, a deep-lying playmaker with a strong Bundesliga background. Although United didn't bid for him in the summer, Stiller is reportedly open to a Premier League transfer. His £35m ($46m) release clause makes him an affordable option.
Casemiro's Future and Amorim's Midfield Overhaul
Amorim's desire for midfield reinforcements is partly due to uncertainty surrounding Casemiro's future. The Brazilian's contract is nearing its end, and he would need to accept a pay cut to stay at Old Trafford. United is preparing for a midfield succession plan, believing that adding a physically strong and technically skilled midfielder like Anderson or Baleba is essential to establishing Amorim's desired style and structure. Therefore, a significant investment in a new player is likely. Currently, United is in seventh place heading into the upcoming match against Everton at Old Trafford, after securing a draw against Tottenham in their most recent game. While there have been improvements, consistency remains a challenge.
So, what do you think? Will these new signings be enough to bring Manchester United back to its former glory?
