Manchester United are on the verge of completing a swift double deal this summer, but reports indicate that the club have moved on from long-term midfield targets Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba. Manager Michael Carrick, who has been rewarded with a permanent role after guiding the team to a top-four finish, will begin his first pre-season as full-time boss next week.
Ederson Deal Imminent; Double Transfer in the Works
Brazilian midfielder Ederson is expected to join United from Atalanta for £35 million, though the move will only be officially confirmed after Brazil's World Cup 2026 campaign ends. Away from first-team signings, United are also poised to secure Wales under-21 goalkeeper Kit Margetson from Swansea City. The 19-year-old, son of former England goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson, will require a compensation fee. Reports suggest Margetson could be loaned out to an EFL club this summer to gain first-team experience, making this a double transfer. The shot-stopper joined Swansea at under-15 level and spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Connah's Quay Nomads without making a senior appearance for the Swans.
Midfield Plans Shift: Wharton and Baleba Ruled Out
United's hunt for a superstar midfielder continues after missing out on Elliot Anderson to Manchester City and Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham Hotspur. The Manchester Evening News reports that although Brighton's Carlos Baleba was admired by United last summer, little movement has occurred this window as Brighton have not dropped their £100 million asking price despite an underwhelming season. Regarding Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, the transfer trail has gone cold; United view the Palace star as too similar to Kobbie Mainoo to play alongside him in a two-man midfield.
Alex Scott Emerges as Top Target
Bournemouth's Alex Scott is now reportedly at the top of United's midfield wishlist. Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni has also been admired for several months, while Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha has a fan in director of football Jason Wilcox, who worked with him in Manchester City's academy. United are expected to intensify their efforts to secure a midfield signing before the transfer window closes.
