Manchester United ended their campaign on a positive note after a revival under Michael Carrick guaranteed their spot in the Champions League next season. The Englishman earned the position permanently thanks to his remarkable turnaround. Matters have continued to improve for United since Carrick took over from Ruben Amorim, and a 3-0 win over Brighton on Sunday capped off what ultimately proved to be a successful season.
The club secured third place in the Premier League and will compete in Champions League football once more. Carrick has now been handed the reins and is gearing up to oversee his maiden summer transfer window as manager. The club are aware they will be losing midfield mainstay Casemiro as his deal runs out. However, there has apparently been a breakthrough concerning a new midfield acquisition, as Express Sport brings you the latest developments from Old Trafford.
With Casemiro poised to exit and Manuel Ugarte’s future in doubt, United are moving swiftly to secure a midfield talent before the transfer window opens.
Ederson, not to be mistaken for the former Manchester City goalkeeper who shares his name, may not be the sole midfield addition United make this summer, should they manage to push this transfer through.
The club are in the market for at least one further player to bolster the centre of the pitch for Carrick, with Elliot Anderson identified as an expensive yet ideal target.
Scott McTominay price tag set
On the topic of midfielders, Scott McTominay continues to shine in Italy following his £26m move to Napoli from United in 2024. He has claimed the Super Cup this season, in addition to his Serie A title from the previous campaign.
The Scotsman, who will be pivotal for his nation at the World Cup this summer, has also played a key role in helping Napoli secure Champions League football — and a former Italy star believes his market value has soared dramatically.
World Cup winner Marco Materazzi said: “I love Scott McTominay. When he established himself as a young player at United, I told my son he would become one of the best in the world. And now he is. He is an incredible box-to-box player.
“I still don’t understand how Manchester United could sell him for so little. In my opinion, he’s worth £70m, but he left for £26m. Is this one of the biggest transfer mistakes in history? I definitely think so.”
McTominay’s stunning performances have even led Napoli to open negotiations over an enhanced contract extension until 2030, an improvement on his existing deal which runs until 2028. He is widely expected to agree to the new terms.