Overview
- Multiple reports say Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has risen to the top of United’s list, valued for his ability to play as a No. 6 or box-to-box, with Forest in a strong bargaining position.
- Brighton’s Carlos Baleba remains a major option after talks fell short in the summer, though Brighton’s high valuation persists despite the player being open to a move.
- Wolves midfielder João Gomes is also on United’s radar, and a relegation at Molineux could force a sale, with Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City monitoring the Brazilian.
- Club planning points to completing a midfield deal before the 2026 World Cup to limit fee inflation, with wage-budget pressures shaping negotiations.
- Conor Gallagher is being tracked as a potential January loan option, and uncertainty around Casemiro’s contract is driving succession planning in midfield.