Michael Carrick secured his inaugural victory as interim manager in emphatic style against Manchester City.
Fresh developments reveal that Manchester United have submitted a ‘formal offer’ to acquire the services of former Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves, presently with Al-Hilal. Speculation has been rife about whether the Red Devils will engage heavily in the current transfer window, particularly as their financial leeway appears limited.
Carrick’s side was compelled to amass funds through player departures, leading to a spend of approximately £230 million in acquiring talents such as Benjamin Sesko, Senne Lammens, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha in preparation for a campaign absent of European contests. This frugal approach is expected to persist throughout this window and into the summer.
Following a summer period in which a new goalkeeper was signed and the attacking lineup revamped, Manchester United’s attention now turns towards a midfield overhaul. They’re anticipated to complete at least two major signings within this sector over the next year. Targets on the radar include Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, or Elliot Anderson to headline their acquisition strategy, with additional signings considered to offset potential departures of Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, or Bruno Fernandes.
While acquisitions like Baleba, Wharton, or Anderson seem poised for the summer window, Neves emerges as a tangible target for this immediate period. The 28-year-old, nearing the end of his contract with Al-Hilal where he has spent recent seasons in the Saudi Pro League, is reportedly keen on a return to the Premier League where he thrived with Wolves.
A Spanish report from Fichajes details that United have made a ‘formal offer’ around the sum of €23 million for Neves, with Al-Hilal currently ‘seriously considering’ acceptance. Crucially, the success of this transaction depends on two pivotal conditions: player salary negotiations and Neves’ personal decision. Saudi Arabian interests face a financial predicament should Neves remain without a contract extension beyond June.
Meanwhile, Manchester United have reportedly survived the scare of losing midfield talent Kobbie Mainoo during Ruben Amorim’s previous management, as the prodigy now receives a clean slate under Carrick’s regime.
Fabrizio Romano affirms that Mainoo “looks set to stay at the club and play an important role.” On his YouTube channel, Romano elaborated: “Man Utd won the derby with Mainoo delivering a commendable performance, underscoring the confidence Carrick has in him. Consequently, any potential loan deal is now off the table despite earlier interest from sides like Napoli.
“With Carrick steady at the helm for the season, Mainoo’s position seems cemented, marking a pivotal chapter for both the player and the club’s future,” Romano asserted.