Manchester United are going back to the drawing board in midfield after missing out on Mateus Fernandes, who has joined Tottenham for £85million. United refused to match that bid for a player they valued at less and were also unsure just how committed the 21-year-old was to moving to Old Trafford.
Third Transfer Blow
That development followed United also pulling out of the race to sign Elliot Anderson, who is joining Manchester City for £116million. Anderson was United's top target in midfield this summer, before they moved on to Fernandes, but they are now having to come up with new plans.
Another name that is off the table is Sandro Tonali. United looked at the Newcastle midfielder earlier in the year, but Tottenham have agreed a deal worth £100million to sign the Italy international.
Potential New Targets
United are taking stock before making another move in the market but they could turn to Bournemouth's 22-year-old Alex Scott. They are long-term admirers of the midfielder, who is also attracting interest from Arsenal.
Aurelien Tchouameni is another name still on the shortlist, although there hasn't yet been an indication that Real Madrid are willing sellers.
Additional Midfield Plans
United might look to sign a third midfielder as well, after Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious knee injury, but that is likely to be a more low-key addition. They have already agreed a £35million deal with Atalanta for Ederson, who will join once Brazil have concluded their World Cup campaign.
