Manchester United have completed the £50m signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and are finalising the £38.8m transfer of Atalanta's Ederson, with head coach Michael Carrick now targeting Bournemouth's Alex Scott as the next piece of a £168m-plus midfield rebuild.
Three New Faces But Star Quality Still Sought
United have also agreed a free transfer for goalkeeper Karl Darlow from Leeds United, bringing three new arrivals in rapid succession. However, none of the signings are considered elite Premier League talent, leaving fans waiting for a star-calibre addition.
Carrick's midfield overhaul was prompted by Casemiro's exit and Manuel Ugarte's recent injury, which heightened the urgency for reinforcements. The new-look engine room will see Ederson line up alongside compatriot Andrey Santos, with Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount as other options.
Alex Scott: The Marque Addition United Need
Bournemouth's Alex Scott, 22, is the player United should pursue as their marquee signing. The future England international made 37 Premier League appearances last season, impressing with his ball retention and duel-winning ability.
The Cherries are reluctant to sell and hope to tie Scott to a new contract, but United are aware the Guernsey-born star would be open to a move to Old Trafford. Bournemouth have placed an £80m price tag on the midfielder.
Missed Targets and Transfer Lessons
United previously missed out on Elliot Anderson, Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali after being priced out of an inflated market. The club must act swiftly to avoid losing another target, with only Mainoo and Mount currently available to Carrick aside from the two Brazilian arrivals.
Should United secure Scott, attention would shift to the attacking line. A left winger is a known priority, with Crysencio Summerville a notable target, though Marcus Rashford's future must first be resolved due to his high wages.
