Manchester United’s firm stance on player valuations could be backfiring, with their Premier League competitors snapping up prime midfield talent. However, a new report suggests that an ideal target still remains within reach.
The Red Devils had initially identified Elliot Anderson as their top priority for the summer transfer window. Yet Nottingham Forest’s steep asking price for the 23-year-old forced United to withdraw, paving the way for a £116 million move to Manchester City, which was finalised last night.
After losing out on Anderson, United shifted focus to West Ham United’s highly rated youngster Mateus Fernandes. The club hoped that West Ham’s relegation might prompt a discounted sale, but the Hammers stood firm on their £80–85 million valuation.
INEOS, however, valued the 21-year-old Portugal international closer to £60 million, sparking drawn-out negotiations. This delay allowed Tottenham Hotspur to enter the race, with the North London club reportedly ready to pay above market value to clinch the deal.
Although no agreement has been reached between either club and West Ham, current indications suggest that Fernandes is more likely to join Tottenham, as United remain unwilling to overpay — much like their stance in the Anderson pursuit.
In response, United’s hierarchy have revived their interest in AFC Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, engaging in renewed discussions this week. Nevertheless, Bournemouth have reportedly ruled out his departure from the Vitality Stadium, with new manager Marco Rose considering the 22-year-old from Guernsey a “cornerstone” of his project.
Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni is still viewed as a “dream target” for Manchester United, though there is recognition that signing him would be both financially and logistically difficult. The midfielder is not expected to leave the Santiago Bernabeu unless circumstances force the issue.
Other midfield options such as Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton are also being monitored, but none appear to match the calibre of one player who has long been admired at Old Trafford — Bruno Guimaraes.
Since his £40 million arrival at Newcastle United from Lyon in 2022, the 28-year-old Brazil international has evolved into one of the Premier League’s finest midfielders. His versatility allows him to excel as a No.6, No.8, or even a more advanced playmaker — reflected in his impressive tally of 31 goals and 32 assists from 195 appearances for the Magpies.
Currently representing Brazil at the World Cup alongside Casemiro, Guimaraes has reportedly earned the veteran midfielder’s endorsement as his ideal successor at Manchester United. When informed of Casemiro’s admiration, the Newcastle captain described it as a “privilege.”
However, Guimaraes will turn 30 next year, placing him outside INEOS’s preferred recruitment age bracket of 22–26. Newcastle are also reluctant to part with their talisman, meaning only a massive offer would tempt them into a sale.
In a surprising twist, reports suggest Guimaraes is now seeking a move away from St James’ Park this summer, frustrated by Newcastle’s lack of progress and their readiness to offload key players.
According to reports, intermediaries have already contacted several major European clubs — including Manchester United — to explore a potential transfer. However, Arsenal are believed to be leading the chase.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Arsenal made a “formal approach” yesterday, offering around £55 million to initiate talks. Newcastle, however, quickly rejected the proposal, making it clear they “won’t sell for that fee.”
The Tyneside outfit are holding out for a sum in the region of £60–70 million, still considerably less than the valuation of his teammate Sandro Tonali.
This situation presents Manchester United with a prime opportunity to act decisively — to signal intent and secure Casemiro’s successor, as recommended by the five-time Champions League winner himself. For INEOS, this could be the moment to invest heavily in a rare midfield talent worth every penny.
