Manchester City could deliver a significant blow to Manchester United's summer transfer plans with a £200 million midfield spending spree. United are seeking a replacement for Casemiro, who left Old Trafford at the end of the 2025-26 season. However, City are also in the market for midfield reinforcements following Bernardo Silva's move to Real Madrid and the potential departure of Rodri in a post-Pep Guardiola era.
Shared Transfer Targets
Both Manchester clubs are reportedly keen on Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali and Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson. Tonali, 26, has impressed despite Newcastle's struggles, and with no European football at St James' Park next season, he may be tempted by Champions League opportunities. However, Newcastle value him at over £100 million, and his contract runs until 2028. Anderson, currently at the 2026 World Cup with England after a standout season, is under contract until 2029, meaning any deal would require a substantial fee.
According to The Athletic, signing both players could cost as much as £200 million. If City secure both, it could inflate the midfield market across the board, leaving United to pursue other options at a premium.
Alternative Options for United
United are also monitoring Mateus Fernandes at West Ham United, who were relegated to the Championship. While West Ham may slash prices to reduce their wage bill, an inflated market could see them hold firm on an £80 million valuation for the 21-year-old. That would force United to spend a significant portion of their budget on a less proven player, impacting other areas needing improvement, such as finding a long-term replacement for 30-year-old Luke Shaw, who is entering the final year of his contract.
United are also linked with Jarrod Bowen, Martin Baturina, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Crysencio Summerville as they look to bolster their attack, despite the presence of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko.
A Busy Summer Ahead
Both Manchester clubs face a busy summer. Michael Carrick is preparing for his first full season as United manager, while Enzo Maresca is expected to succeed Guardiola at City. The outcome of the midfield battle could shape their respective campaigns.
