Manchester United transfer targets summer 2026: Club-record £100m signing eyed

In this article, we will be taking a deeper look at all of the latest Manchester United transfer targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

After a successful transfer window last summer, when the club brought in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Senne Lammens, the goal this summer is to make signings that can make them genuine title contenders in 2026/27.

2026 Premier League Football Chelsea v West Ham Jan 31st
Could Palmer be on the move from London to Manchester? – Photo by IMAGO / Action Plus

Manchester United transfer targets summer 2026

 

Manchester United transfer targets
Current club
Estimated fee*

Carlos Baleba

Brighton

£52m

Cole Palmer

Chelsea

£104m

Bruno Guimaraes

Newcastle

£70m

Sandro Tonali

Newcastle

£80m

Aleksandar Stankovic

Club Brugge

£13m

Elliot Anderson

Nottingham Forest

£80m

Alex Scott

Bournemouth

£36m

*Based on reported current valuations. Subject to change.

Carlos Baleba (Brighton)

According to football journalist and transfer expert David Ornstein, United contacted Brighton last summer to explore the conditions over a potential deal for central midfield player Carlos Baleba.

While they were told a deal would be impossible at the time, things may be different this time around. Baleba has had a poor season by his standards, with many people speculating that his head was turned by United's interest. There is likely to still be in interest in the player, but at a lower fee.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea)

According to different rumours, including those from Football Insider, Manchester United are extremely interested in bringing Palmer to Old Trafford. More importantly, Chelsea are not completely shutting down the interest from the Red Devils.

That being said, signing Palmer would cost United a record transfer fee for the Premier League, as Chelsea reportedly won't settle for anything less than £125m, so it remains to be seen whether the two sides can find a common ground in the summer.

Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle)

Rumours linking Bruno Guimaraes with a sensational move to Man Utd are gathering pace. It is understood that Casemiro has personally recommended his compatriot to United officials, and reports from sources close to the player in Brazil have suggested that the talks are already at an advanced stage.

Sandro Tonali (Newcastle)

Another Newcastle midfielder being linked with a move to Manchester United is Sandro Tonali. The Italian is reportedly set to push for the exit door this summer and is keen on a move to Old Trafford.

Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)

According to various reports, United have stepped up their efforts to sign Elliot Anderson, and have informed Nottingham Forest of their interest. The England international midfielder would cost a club-record £100m. Man City are said to be the favourites to sign the former Newcastle man, but don't count at the Red Devils just yet.

Alex Scott (Bournemouth)

According to transfer expert Graeme Bailey, United are aware of the progress being made by English midfielder Alex Scott this season, and are closely monitoring his situation at Bournemouth ahead of a potential move.


Adam is a lead writer on Football Whispers. He is a big Arsenal fan, and also follows his local club Wealdstone, made famous by The Wealdstone Raider, who he has interviewed. Adam also follows darts, boxing, cricket and tennis, among many other sports.