Manchester United are poised to overhaul their midfield this summer, with Bournemouth's Alex Scott identified as the marquee £80m target to complement the arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. The club's priority is building a squad capable of competing in the Champions League after securing a third-place finish under permanent manager Michael Carrick.
Midfield Revamp Underway
United have already secured Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50m, while negotiations for Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans are well advanced, with his £35m release clause activated. The departure of Casemiro has left a significant void, and three midfield additions are anticipated during this window. A deal for Atalanta's Ederson has all but collapsed, though it may be revisited later in the summer.
Kobbie Mainoo is expected to anchor the double pivot in Carrick's system, requiring an energetic, box-to-box number eight alongside him. Scott fits that profile perfectly, offering the physicality and defensive screening needed to shield the young Mainoo.
Scott's Attributes and Value
The 22-year-old was sensational last season for Bournemouth, helping the club secure European football for the first time in their history. He is a combative player who excels at driving the ball forward, with exceptional positional awareness. According to reports, he surpasses Mason Mount in defensive screening and ball recovery, making him an ideal partner for Mainoo while also serving as a key ball-carrier for Bruno Fernandes.
Bournemouth are working to secure Scott on fresh terms, but it is understood he currently tops United's midfield wishlist. The club are urged to act swiftly and table an offer for the youngster, reportedly valued at £80m. Scott is also homegrown, a valuable asset for European competition.
Carrick's Vision and Squad Depth
Looking back at United's final fixture of the 2025/26 season against Brighton, they were already preparing for life after Casemiro. Four attackers were positioned ahead of Mainoo and Mount in the double pivot. Mainoo was outstanding, prevailing in duels and dictating play from a deeper role, proving instrumental in their 3-0 victory. Mount also caught the eye as the number eight, but United need a star with greater physicality.
With Andrey Santos and Tielemans, should he complete a move, United would have ideal cover and versatility. Mount can also enter the equation in specific circumstances. Scott is the player United ought to be targeting to strengthen their midfield, according to the analysis.
