Manchester United's summer transfer window has started slowly, largely due to the World Cup, with many players delaying decisions about their futures until after the tournament. This has forced fans to remain patient as they await official announcements.
Ederson deal delayed
United have been working behind the scenes to secure signings during the international break. Atalanta's Ederson is expected to be the first arrival, but his late call-up to Brazil's World Cup squad has pushed back the confirmation. Brazil's 2-1 victory over Japan means the 26-year-old midfielder's move is further delayed.
The Reds have also tried to add another midfielder but were beaten by Manchester City and Tottenham for Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes respectively.
Free agents as cost-effective solutions
With multiple areas of the pitch needing reinforcement alongside the midfield, United may explore the free transfer market to make additions. MEN Sport has identified four free agents who could strengthen the squad this season.
Yves Bissouma
United's plans to replace Manuel Ugarte have been complicated by the Uruguayan's injury. Before his setback, the club was considering selling Ugarte and signing another midfielder. That option is now off the table, leaving a headache for the management. Promoting from within—with academy talents like Tyler Fletcher and Jim Thwaites—is one possibility, but a free signing could be the right course.
Bissouma, recently released by Tottenham after a torrid time with injuries, was on United's radar during his Brighton days. While his spell in north London did not go well, he could provide experienced depth in midfield, though he is not a direct replacement for Casemiro.
Leon Goretzka
Goretzka's World Cup ended early on Tuesday as Germany lost to Paraguay on penalties. The 31-year-old's priority now is sorting out his domestic future. He offers midfield experience, having been a regular for Bayern Munich last season, and is less of a risk than Bissouma due to playing more matches in 2025/26.
There are concerns that Goretzka does not fit the Ineos model for midfielders—he lacks Premier League experience and is not a player for the future. However, in a young squad short of Champions League experience, Goretzka could fill that gap.
Dani Ceballos
Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni is a dream signing for United, but his former teammate Ceballos could be an alternative. Injuries took their toll on Ceballos at Madrid, but he offers the central midfield experience United desperately need. He would likely accept a squad player role if it meant staying at a Champions League club, and his previous Premier League experience makes him an intriguing option.
Dusan Vlahovic
The Juventus striker's time in Turin spiralled after lengthy contract negotiations broke down, and injuries hampered his form. He missed a good portion of last season with a muscular complaint but scored four goals in his final four Serie A games to finish on a high. At 26, Vlahovic is a good age and could be about to hit his peak. Barcelona and Chelsea have both been linked, and he could serve as a solid backup to Benjamin Sesko.
