Man United decide third midfield reinforcement after Santos & Tielemans signings

Open menu

OneFootball's home page

Settings

caughtoffside

20 July 2026

Manchester United’s major midfield rebuild may not be finished yet, despite the arrivals of

Andrey Santos

and

Youri Tielemans

The two new signings provide Michael Carrick with more technical quality and Premier League experience, but United are still exploring the market for a more athletic midfielder capable of protecting the defence and carrying the ball through pressure.

Carlos Baleba, Manu Koné and Adam Wharton have all been discussed, although the cost and availability of each player could determine which direction the club takes.

Sources close to the agents industry have informed

CaughtOffside

on Man United’s interest in Baleba.

The Brighton midfielder would be keen to move to Old Trafford

. Loose personal terms were reportedly discussed last summer, but United had not submitted a fresh proposal to Brighton at the time of the report.

United have already officially confirmed the signings of Santos and Tielemans, strengthening a midfield that required rebuilding following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s injury.

Baleba remains an attractive option because of his power, mobility and Premier League experience, but Brighton’s valuation is a significant complication.

Meanwhile,

talkSPORT

reports that United have made an enquiry for Roma midfielder Manu Koné, who could cost around €60 million.

Another name on the list is Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton who would demand a huge fee.

Baleba offers the most exciting physical profile, but Koné may represent the more sensible deal.

Santos can win possession and contribute at both ends, while Tielemans brings passing range, creativity and leadership.

What United still lack is a midfielder who can cover ground quickly, resist pressure and move the team forward through direct carries.

Baleba fits those requirements, but paying a premium after an inconsistent season would be risky.

Koné offers similar energy, has experience in the Bundesliga, Serie A and international football, and could be available for a more manageable price.

Wharton would improve United’s passing from deep, but his likely fee makes him the least realistic option.

Unless Brighton reduce their demands, Koné appears to provide the best balance between quality, affordability and tactical suitability.

After Santos and Tielemans: Man United turn attention towards bargain midfield signing

Man United Midfield Rebuild: Who Comes Next After Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans?

Attacking Football

Youri Tielemans: Man United’s reaction to deal with Aston Villa unveiled

The Peoples Person

Man Utd face double Aston Villa hijack blow for fourth and fifth signings in Tielemans payback

Football365

Youri Tielemans: Man United’s confidence in Aston Villa star explained

Predicting which clubs the summer's biggest free agents will sign for

There are still some massive names who are set to become free agents in the summer, with some high-profile deals due to expire at the end of next month.As speculation...

Tottenham: Why James Maddison was not awarded a penalty against Leeds as Premier League issue statement

Spurs midfielder denied a big moment on his return from injuryThe Premier League has explained why Tottenham were not awarded a penalty in their draw against Leeds.As the clock ticked...

Bento's howler delays CR7's first title in Saudi Arabia 😱

An ugly mistake by Brazilian goalkeeper Bento prevented Al-Nassr from winning the Saudi League title this Tuesday.Cristiano Ronaldo’s team was leading 1-0 until the 53rd minute of the second half,...