Manchester United's summer transfer strategy has received a significant boost following a development within the England camp. Thomas Tuchel's squad is currently preparing for their campaign in the United States, with a match against Croatia scheduled for Wednesday.
However, several players from the initial group that traveled to the US will not feature in that match and are instead set to leave the camp. This could potentially shift their focus to the upcoming season, which might work in Michael Carrick's favor as he looks to revamp his midfield options this summer.
Meanwhile, United already appears to have a backup option identified amidst progress in the search for a new central midfielder. MEN Sport has compiled some of Friday's most significant stories emerging from Old Trafford as action gets underway in North America.
Sangare 'Targeted'
Among the midfielders linked with a move to Old Trafford is Lens' Mamadou Sangare. According to Foot Mercato, United is prepared to table a £35 million bid for the player. That valuation corresponds to the 23-year-old after an outstanding season in Ligue 1, though the eventual fee could prove higher.
Lens has suffered from their own success after winning the Coupe de France for the first time and securing second place in France's top division. Boss Pierre Sage has signed a deal to succeed Oliver Glasner at Crystal Palace, and Sangare may join him in departing.
United's interest is claimed to be the 'most serious' among the clubs linked with the midfielder. Sangare arrived at Lens from Austrian side Rapid Vienna last summer and immediately impressed in one of Europe's elite leagues.
The prospective deal is certainly among the more economical options United is currently being tipped for. It appears to align with the club's fresh approach of pursuing lower-profile names who still fit the blueprint Carrick is looking to establish.
Scott Transfer Route Clears
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott is expected to return to the UK after being called up by Thomas Tuchel for England's pre-World Cup warm-up matches. Scott was among several players brought to the US by the England manager, including Liverpool's Rio Ngumoha, Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri, and Fulham youngster Josh King.
Scott is poised to leave the England setup after the Three Lions concluded their pre-tournament friendlies, which could benefit United's transfer plans. This follows a report in The Athletic claiming the club will decline to participate in the £120 million battle for Elliot Anderson and will concentrate on more achievable options instead.
According to the publication, Bournemouth playmaker Scott—whose step-sister Maya Le Tissier captains United's women—and West Ham's Mateus Fernandes both fit that category. Each player is anticipated to cost around £80 million.
There is an argument that Scott's return from the United States will make him and his advisors accessible for discussions over a summer transfer. More importantly, the player himself would now be available to undergo a medical should United and Bournemouth reach an agreement on a fee.
This does not necessarily apply to players participating in the World Cup, whose availability for such procedures is determined by the medical teams of their national sides. Thus, United could now have a route to signing Scott. The Cherries paid Bristol City approximately £25 million to secure Scott's services in the summer of 2023.
The 22-year-old has since demonstrated his capabilities at the Premier League level. Incoming Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is also rumored to be considering a bid for the player, meaning United may need to act swiftly.
Carrick's team is on the verge of confirming a new midfielder after securing a £39 million agreement to bring in Ederson from Atalanta. However, his arrival is now expected to be postponed following his late World Cup call-up to the Brazil squad.
