Man Utd's midfield overhaul plan: Searching for a 'new Rodri' to partner with Kobbie Mainoo.
Manchester United are prioritizing the signing of Elliot Anderson and seeking a defensive midfielder to replace Casemiro, aiming to build a new backbone around Kobbie Mainoo in the summer of 2026.
Under the management of the INEOS group, Manchester United is quietly preparing for a large-scale overhaul of its midfield in the summer of 2026. The focus of this plan is to find the perfect partner to unlock the potential of young talent Kobbie Mainoo, while also thoroughly addressing the post-Casemiro situation.
The priority is to find a replacement for Casemiro's 'scanning machine'.
According to analysis from The Athletic, Manchester United are almost certain to part ways with Casemiro at the end of the current season. With Manuel Ugarte yet to live up to expectations and Toby Collyer still needing time to mature, the Red Devils are expected to bring in at least two new central midfielders. The top priority is finding a number 6 player with a similar impact to Manchester City's Rodri: a midfielder with superior physicality, excellent aerial ability, and especially outstanding ball control.
The club's transfer strategy has been clearly defined: prioritizing players under 25 to ensure sustainability. Notably, Man Utd are willing to dedicate 60-70% of their transfer budget to midfield just to acquire a top-class defensive midfielder who can protect the defense and effectively counter-attack.
Elliot Anderson and his strategic objectives
Leading the Old Trafford shopping list is Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest. The 23-year-old midfielder is considered an ideal partner for Kobbie Mainoo due to his mobility and ability to drop deep and organize play. However, Man Utd will face fierce competition from their neighbors Manchester City in this transfer.
Besides Anderson, two other names, Carlos Baleba (Brighton) and Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), are also on their radar. In Wharton's case, despite possessing a refined playmaking vision, his limitations in physicality and aerial ability have led Man Utd to consider buying an additional "bodyguard" like Mateus Fernandes (West Ham) to support him if they sign the Palace midfielder.
Bruno Fernandes' future and the new backbone of the team.
Besides strengthening the squad, retaining key players is also a priority for INEOS. Following rumors of a move to Saudi Arabia worth between £80-100 million last summer, captain Bruno Fernandes' future is now clearer. With his consistent performance and irreplaceable role in leading the team's play, Man Utd are planning to extend the Portuguese midfielder's contract, similar to what Liverpool did with Mohamed Salah.
Building a stable system around Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, combined with a top-class defensive midfielder, is expected to help Manchester United regain their position in the Premier League and Champions League. The summer of 2026 is not just an ordinary transfer window, but a decisive milestone in the Red Devils' ambitions to become champions in the new era.
