Although there is still plenty of time left in the current season, big plans are already being drawn up at Old Trafford for the 2026-27 campaign.
Manchester United‘s hierarchy intend to invest heavily in rejuvenating the squad this summer and, according to behind-the-scenes reports, have identified three Premier League stars for whom they are willing to pay a combined £150m. The aim is to build a team that will dominate long-term regardless of who plays and who sits on the bench.
The summer of 2026 will be a turning point for the Red Devils. Current head coach Michael Carrick's contract only runs until the end of the current season and his future is yet to be decided. However, Carrick's start has been nothing short of a dream.
Target number one: England international from Nottingham
In three matches, he has claimed three victories against heavyweights, beating Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham, lifting the team to fourth in the table. Even though the team has come alive under his stewardship and summer signings like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha are shining, the club want to continue the trend in the transfer market.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, United's primary target is Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. The 23-year-old has been in superb form since his move from Newcastle in 2024 and has already earned six England caps under Thomas Tuchel.
Anderson is under contract at Nottingham until June 2029, making him very expensive. His price could climb above £80m. However, United see him as a key building block for the future of their midfield.
Cheaper alternative and tactical reshuffle in defence
The next name on the list is Bournemouth's Alex Scott. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has been shining under Andoni Iraola on the south coast, although he is still waiting for his first start in an England shirt.
Scott is under contract until 2028 and would likely be a cheaper option than Anderson. The question, however, is how he would be used, given that captain Bruno Fernandes reigns supreme in that position at United, with even a player of Kobbie Mainoo's quality unable to dislodge him under Amorim.
The final piece of the puzzle is said to be Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall. The 21-year-old talent, whose market value sits at around £27m according to Transfermarkt, could solve a tactical conundrum at Old Trafford.
His arrival would allow Patrick Dorgu to be pushed permanently into attack. Dorgu, who joined United as a full-back, has been excelling on the wing under Carrick, and the signing of a natural left-back would free him to focus on his offensive duties.
United's hierarchy are clearly betting on hungry youth and proven Premier League quality. Whether all three transfers can be completed, however, remains to be seen over the coming months.
