Manchester United are planning a major midfield rebuild next summer, with Ruben Amorim targeting youth, energy, and class to revitalise the engine room. The club have identified Brighton's Carlos Baleba, valued at around £115m, as a primary target, alongside England international Adam Wharton, Wolves' Joao Gomes, and VFB Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller.
Amorim currently relies on Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Mason Mount, but recognises the need for long-term solutions. Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot are deemed not up to the required standard, while Kobbie Mainoo's development has stalled. The Portuguese coach has long admired United's historic midfield units, such as the Treble-winning quartet of Roy Keane, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes, and David Beckham.
To fund the overhaul, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is focused on balancing the books. High earners Jadon Sancho, Casemiro, Harry Maguire, and Marcus Rashford are expected to leave, potentially saving £1m per week in wages. Sancho will depart on a free transfer, while Casemiro and Maguire may stay only on reduced terms. Rashford's £325,000-a-week salary could be offloaded via a permanent move to Barcelona.
Director of football Jason Wilcox is working closely with Amorim to compile a list of realistic targets. The club addressed their attacking deficiencies last summer and will now turn attention to the midfield, which Amorim believes is where the biggest games are won and lost.
