Manchester United have all but secured their first signing of the summer after agreeing a deal for midfielder Ederson, but they look set to miss out on their primary target, Elliot Anderson. Manchester City's mammoth £120 million bid for the 23-year-old has priced United out of a move, and with Anderson preferring a switch to the Etihad, the Red Devils are no longer considering him.
Midfield Targets
Instead, United's focus has shifted to Mateus Fernandes at West Ham, while Alex Scott and Carlos Baleba are also highly regarded. With the World Cup underway, the club is also working on deals in other areas of the squad.
Left-Back and Forward Plans
When asked about a backup for Luke Shaw and potential additions at left-wing and striker, sources indicate that the immediate priority is a left-back rather than a left-winger. United are keen on Lewis Hall, and a deal could be struck, with the long-term aim of finding a successor to Shaw. Patrick Dorgu is currently viewed more as a winger, making a left-wing signing unlikely. There is interest in Morgan Rogers and Iliman Ndiaye, but financial feasibility and priority levels mean it is not a pressing need.
Regarding strikers, there is a plan to add another forward, especially if Joshua Zirkzee departs. However, the target is likely to be an experienced backup rather than a marquee name.
Anderson and Tonali
United have stepped back from the Anderson deal, and links with Sandro Tonali have also cooled. The Italian is not high on the current agenda. Newcastle, having banked £69 million from Anthony Gordon's sale, have no need to sell, and United would rather push for left-back Hall than pursue Tonali. There is zero chance of landing both.
Mateus Fernandes Situation
United remain firmly in the race for Fernandes. Despite West Ham's reported exorbitant asking price, it is early in the window and part of negotiations. United will not pay £85 million, but West Ham likely know they won't get that fee. A compromise is expected, especially if Fernandes signals his desire to move to Old Trafford.
Transfer Timetable
There is no delay in United's transfer activity. The window does not officially open until Monday, and the club is in a strong position. With a deal agreed for Ederson and a clear idea of other midfield targets, there is no reason to panic.
Experienced Striker Option
Regarding a potential move for Robert Lewandowski as a short-term backup, this is unlikely. United want an experienced backup for Sesko but with a lower profile than Lewandowski, who would command huge wages and expect to start. At 37, he does not fit United's structure or Michael Carrick's style of play.
Expectations Under Michael Carrick
No specific expectations have been communicated yet, but Carrick aims for progress and closing the gap on Manchester City and Arsenal. The club expects Champions League football and, if things go well, a title challenge. Carrick has signed a two-year deal, and United have made clear they want to win the title within that timeframe, so the 44-year-old is expected to at least come close.
