Manchester United eye deeper role for Mason Mount as midfield rebuild stalls

Manchester United are planning to deploy midfielder Mason Mount in a deeper, more defensive role for the 2026‑27 season, according to reports. The tactical shift is being overseen by head coach Michael Carrick and is intended to alleviate a growing midfield crisis.

The club’s transfer activity has stalled: a proposed signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson collapsed after medical concerns, and a £85 million bid for Mateus Fernandes was rejected, prompting Fernandes to join Tottenham Hotspur instead. Former Brazil midfielder Casemiro has already left on a free transfer, and Uruguay international Manuel Ugarte suffers an ACL injury that will keep him out for months. With Kobbie Mainoo the only senior central midfielder currently fit, United have secured a fee for Andrey Santos from Chelsea and are monitoring several other potential recruits.

Carrick’s plan hinges on Mount’s versatility and work rate, but he is not expected to become the permanent holding midfielder. The reshuffle reflects United’s broader effort to rebuild a midfield capable of supporting a Champions League campaign and a title challenge.