United's Midfield Emergency
Manchester United are facing a deepening midfield crisis as they scramble to reinforce a department left threadbare by exits, injury, and missed transfer targets. With Casemiro departing at the end of his contract and Manuel Ugarte now sidelined with a severe knee injury, manager Michael Carrick has only Kobbie Mainoo as a recognised senior central midfielder—and even he remains on World Cup duty with England.
The situation turned critical when Ugarte suffered what the Uruguayan himself described as
"the most serious injury a footballer can face"during the World Cup clash against Spain. United have yet to confirm the full extent of the cruciate ligament damage, but it is expected to rule him out until at least the end of 2026.
In the transfer market, the Red Devils have been repeatedly frustrated. Long-time primary target Elliot Anderson joined Manchester City in a record £116 million deal, while Mateus Fernandes opted for Tottenham Hotspur in an £85 million switch. A £35 million agreement has been reached with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, but his late call-up to the Brazil squad means the medical will not take place until after his World Cup campaign, delaying his integration into the squad.
Andrey Santos: The New Priority
As a result, United have turned their attention to Chelsea's Andrey Santos. The 22-year-old Brazilian, signed from Vasco da Gama for £18 million in 2023, is highly rated but faces an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge as Xabi Alonso begins his rebuild. Chelsea are understood to value Santos at around £50 million, a fee that could fit United's budget if they choose to invest heavily in the midfield void.
Santos spent last season on loan at Strasbourg in Ligue 1, where he impressed with his combative style and ability to drive forward from deep—qualities that align with United's need for a box-to-box presence. With Chelsea needing to sell to comply with financial regulations, a deal might be attainable, though competition from Newcastle United could complicate matters.
Alex Scott Also Under Consideration
Another name on United's shortlist is Alex Scott of Bournemouth. The 22-year-old England international, who was called up to Thomas Tuchel's training squad ahead of the World Cup, is valued for his versatility and technical ability. He can operate as a deep-lying playmaker or a more advanced midfielder, offering Carrick additional tactical flexibility.
Scott would likely be a cheaper alternative to Santos, but Bournemouth are under no pressure to sell and could demand a premium given the inflated market.
Quick Facts: Andrey Santos
Age: 22
Position: Central Midfielder
Former Club: Vasco da Gama
2023/24 Loan Club: Strasbourg
Estimated Value: £50 million
Key Takeaways
- Manchester United's midfield crisis has been exacerbated by Manuel Ugarte's potential season-ending injury and failed pursuits of Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes.
- Chelsea's Andrey Santos is now a prime target, but the London club values him at around £50 million, with Newcastle also interested.
- Bournemouth's Alex Scott is an alternative option, though his price could also be inflated.
- An agreement for Atalanta's Ederson awaits a medical after the World Cup, meaning no immediate reinforcement is available.
- United face a shortage of senior midfielders for pre-season, with only Mason Mount—a more offensive player—likely to be available for the early friendlies.
