Manchester United are plotting an audacious midfield overhaul for next season with summer targets Bruno Guimaraes and Adam Wharton topping their wishlist.
United endured a turbulent campaign that left them outside the Premier League’s top ten. The club dismissed Erik ten Hag in January and appointed Ruben Amorim on a long-term deal. Amorim arrived after impressing with his tactical acumen in Portugal’s top flight. His early mandate focused on steadying a faltering side.
Europa League progress offered a rare bright spot for the Red Devils. United beat top-tier opposition to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2016. Winning the competition now represents a direct route back into the Champions League. Amorim recognises that European success could transform the narrative around his tenure.
United need reinforcements in central midfield after key departures. Christian Eriksen, aged 32, will leave when his contract expires. Meanwhile, 33-year-old Casemiro has struggled for form and occupies a high weekly salary. United plan to fund summer arrivals by trimming their wage bill.
Amorim’s top transfer target remains Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle. The 27-year-old Brazilian has made over 100 Premier League appearances since joining in January 2022. His dynamic play and creative vision win widespread acclaim. However, major European clubs monitor his situation ahead of next season.
Another central midfield option is England youth international Adam Wharton. The 21-year-old has broken into Crystal Palace’s first team during the 2024–25 campaign. His composed passing and defensive work rate impress senior staff at Old Trafford. Yet United face stiff competition as Bayern Munich and Juventus eye the talented youngster.
Newcastle maintain they will not sell Guimaraes cheaply. The Magpies opened talks on a new contract that would reward him with a significant pay rise. Similarly, Palace view Wharton as a future cornerstone and plan to demand a hefty fee. United must balance these outlays against salary savings from outgoing stars.
Offloading Casemiro emerges as a key challenge for United. The Brazil international earns in excess of £350,000 per week and seeks a high signing bonus. His strong financial demands limit potential suitors. United hope to find a solution that frees up transfer funds and reduces their hefty wage bill.
United also plan to sell four senior players to fund a move for Wolves forward Matheus Cunha. That group includes academy graduate Marcus Rashford. In addition, Amorim has identified a promising Portuguese goalkeeper as Andre Onana’s successor. Meeting all these targets demands a complex balancing act in the transfer market.
The club’s scouting network remains active, searching for a young striker to bolster the attack. Talent spotters have zeroed in on promising forwards across Europe. Meanwhile, supporters debate Amorim’s long-term prospects at Old Trafford. A fan poll asks: How long will the new manager remain in charge?
Securing Champions League football remains United’s overriding objective. Failure to finish in the top four intensifies the need for a Europa League triumph. A European title would boost revenue and enhance recruitment appeal. That makes this summer’s transfer strategy absolutely pivotal to the club’s rebuilding process.
