Manchester United narrows midfield transfer shortlist after missed target deals

Manchester United have missed out on two high‑profile midfield targets this summer: Elliot Anderson joined Manchester City and Mateus Fernandes moved to Tottenham Hotspur for £85 million. The club remain determined to rebuild the midfield without overspending.

Their current shortlist, compiled by Sky Sports, includes French midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, 18‑year‑old Lille prodigy Ayyoub Bouaddi, Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha, Fulham’s Sander Berge and Turkish side Besiktas midfielder Wilfred Ndidi. United have already agreed to sign goalkeeper Ederson from Atalanta, pending his World Cup duties. Interest in Bouaddi is hampered by Lille’s demand that any transfer be followed by an immediate loan back, while Tchouameni’s availability depends on Real Madrid’s own midfield plans. Scott’s move would require a premium because Bournemouth intend to retain him. Ndidi is reported to be available for around €8 million, matching Besiktas’s original outlay.

United’s strategy appears to balance ambitious targets with realistic alternatives, aiming to secure at least two midfield signings while funding the deal through the anticipated Ederson arrival and the possible sale of Marcus Rashford.