Manchester United's recruitment plans have begun to take shape following major developments in the summer transfer window. The club have been linked with multiple midfield targets as manager Michael Carrick looks to rebuild his squad.
Midfield Departures and Injuries Create Urgency
The departure of Casemiro and a subsequent injury to Manuel Ugarte have left United light in central midfield. United previously agreed a fee with Atalanta for Ederson, but the deal has suffered complications.
Andrey Santos is the first new midfielder to sign for United this summer. The 22-year-old completed a £50million switch from Chelsea and is looking ahead to a new chapter at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick's Role in Santos Transfer
Santos revealed how Carrick influenced his decision to join United. The Brazilian featured 43 times for Chelsea last season and is eager to reach a new level under the former United midfielder.
"Everything about Manchester United is special; it is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented," Santos told United's club website. "As a midfielder, I am really excited to have the opportunity to learn from Michael Carrick, he is the perfect coach to help me take the next step in my career and push to achieve my dreams."
Santos added: "Everybody told me about how ambitious the club is and the amazing environment that has been created here. I know just how strong the squad is and I cannot wait to fight together to compete for the biggest trophies."
£35m Ederson Twist and Tielemans Pursuit
United are closing in on a deal for Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans, though their pursuit of Atalanta's Ederson has hit an obstacle. A £35million agreement, plus an additional £3.8m, had been reached for Ederson earlier this summer before the midfielder received a late call-up to Brazil's World Cup squad. The deal was subsequently halted after concerns emerged over a knee problem sustained last term. United remain open to signing Ederson, should they successfully renegotiate the fee with Atalanta.
The club's unexpected pursuit of Tielemans for a reportedly similar fee has raised doubts over whether Ederson will ultimately move to Old Trafford. Tielemans' current contract runs until 2028, but United are in advanced talks over a move for the Belgian international. The 29-year-old would bring a wealth of Premier League experience, having first made his mark in English football when he joined Leicester City in January 2019. He played a pivotal role in the Villa squad that secured fourth place in the league and claimed the Europa League title last season.
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