Manchester United’s dramatic fall from grace has left fans reeling, but new manager Ruben Amorim is determined to resurrect the club. The solution? A massive squad overhaul, starting with two key signings, one of whom is already lighting up the Premier League. But is Amorim’s vision realistic, or will it be another false dawn for the Red Devils?
After a disastrous 15th-place finish last season – a Premier League low for the club – Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag in November 2024, is under immense pressure to deliver. His first year has been anything but smooth, marked by inconsistency and a lack of clear direction. Now, he’s aiming to rebuild the midfield, targeting players who can inject dynamism and steel into the team.
The Mirror reports that Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has shot to the top of United’s wish list. Anderson’s versatility is a major draw; he can operate as a holding No. 6 or a more adventurous box-to-box midfielder. Forest, understandably, are digging in for a fight to keep him. His contract, which stretches until June 2029, gives them significant leverage. But here’s where it gets controversial… Some critics argue that spending upwards of £75 million ($99m) on a relatively unproven player like Anderson is a massive gamble, especially given United’s recent track record in the transfer market. Is he worth the risk?
Despite the hefty price tag, United see Anderson as a more attainable target than some of their other midfield options. His recent rise to prominence with the England national team adds another layer of intrigue. Having made his debut in September, he already boasts five senior caps and is being touted as a potential starter at the 2026 World Cup. England boss Thomas Tuchel has been particularly effusive in his praise, highlighting Anderson’s physicality, mobility, and defensive capabilities. After England’s 2–0 victory over Andorra, Tuchel commented on Anderson’s impressive adaptability and strong performance, noting his physicality and mindset suitable for challenging games.
United’s interest in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba hasn’t waned either. The Cameroon international remains firmly on their radar, and the club reportedly considered a late bid during the summer transfer window before Brighton stood firm. And this is the part most people miss… Brighton, having already pocketed a cool £115m ($154m) from Chelsea for Moises Caicedo in 2023, have signaled that they expect a similar fee for Baleba. United, understandably, baulked at that price and walked away. But Amorim remains a big admirer of the 21-year-old. Baleba, for his part, is reportedly keen on the move, and United may reignite their interest if negotiations with Forest over Anderson prove fruitless. But can United afford to spend such exorbitant amounts on two midfielders in a single window? That remains to be seen.
Beyond Anderson and Baleba, United are also keeping tabs on other midfield options. Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher is being considered as a potential short-term solution if he becomes available on loan in January. Regular game time in the Premier League could be crucial for Gallagher as he seeks to secure a place in England’s World Cup squad. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is another name on the list, although his recent contract extension at Selhurst Park could complicate matters. Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, a deep-lying playmaker with a strong Bundesliga pedigree, is also being monitored. His relatively affordable £35m ($46m) release clause makes him an attractive option. But are these players truly the caliber needed to transform United’s midfield?
Amorim’s determination to revamp the midfield is partly fueled by uncertainty surrounding Casemiro’s future. The Brazilian veteran’s contract is nearing its end, and he would likely need to accept a pay cut to stay at Old Trafford. United are therefore planning for a future without him. The club believes that adding a physically imposing and technically gifted midfielder, similar to Anderson or Baleba, is essential for implementing Amorim’s desired style of play. This is why a big-money signing is likely. After a late draw against Tottenham in their most recent match, United are currently seventh in the league standings as they approach their upcoming match against Everton at Old Trafford. While there have been moments of improvement, consistency remains a significant challenge.
Ultimately, whether Amorim can successfully overhaul United’s midfield and restore the club to its former glory remains to be seen. Will Anderson or Baleba be the catalyst for change? Or will United’s struggles continue despite the potential influx of new talent? What do you think? Are these the right targets for United, or should they be looking elsewhere? And is Amorim the right man to lead the Red Devils back to the top? Share your thoughts in the comments below!