Manchester United are once again at the center of the transfer rumor mill, with fresh reports swirling about potential midfield reinforcements and high-profile returns to Old Trafford. As the 2025-26 Premier League season nears its conclusion, the Red Devils’ recruitment strategy is coming into sharp focus, with a mix of familiar faces and new talent on their radar.
One of the most intriguing developments involves the possible return of Scott McTominay. Just two years after the Scotland international departed Old Trafford for Napoli, Manchester United are now considering re-signing the 29-year-old midfielder for a reported fee of 80 million euros (£70 million). Napoli, who acquired McTominay from United, appear willing to cash in, opening the door for a dramatic homecoming. The move, if completed, would see McTominay don the red shirt once again, offering United a blend of experience and tenacity in the heart of midfield.
But McTominay is not the only name drawing attention from United’s recruitment team. According to GIVEMESPORT, Nottingham Forest’s Ivory Coast midfielder Ibrahim Sangare has emerged as a standout target in United’s ongoing search for a replacement for departing Brazilian stalwart Casemiro. Sangare, 28, has impressed United scouts with his performances at the City Ground, particularly since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations. He’s played the full 90 minutes in each of Forest’s last six Premier League fixtures, underscoring his reliability and fitness.
United’s recruitment team, led by a desire to inject Premier League experience into their ranks, has reportedly narrowed their midfield shortlist from an initial pool of 8-12 down to a select few. Alongside Sangare, other top targets include Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Carlos Baleba (Brighton & Hove Albion), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United), and Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller. The club is keen to secure not just one, but two experienced midfielders this summer, hoping to bolster their squad ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
Replacing Casemiro won’t be easy. The Brazilian, who announced in January 2026 that he would be leaving Old Trafford at the end of the season, has been a vital presence in United’s midfield. At 34, Casemiro’s contract is set to expire, and he’s reportedly open to a move to Major League Soccer in the United States, signaling a new chapter in his illustrious career. His departure leaves a sizable gap, both in leadership and in defensive midfield prowess.
That’s where Sangare comes in. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, Sangare is seen as a direct replacement for Casemiro, offering a similar blend of height, physicality, and defensive steel. According to journalist Jak Netting, Sangare has been described as an “absolute monster” for his combative style and ability to shield the defense. GIVEMESPORT highlighted his strengths: “Ibrahim Sangare offers strong tackling, interceptions, and physical presence—qualities that could add bite and protection in front of United’s back line at Manchester United.”
His athleticism and aerial dominance are also key assets. “Powerful and mobile, he covers ground well and contributes in both boxes, especially on defensive and attacking set pieces,” noted GIVEMESPORT’s analysis. While Sangare isn’t known for creative playmaking, his simple distribution and ability to anchor the midfield allow more advanced players to operate with freedom. That’s the sort of structure United have often lacked in recent seasons, and Sangare’s profile fits the bill.
There is, however, some debate about his age. Sangare will turn 29 at the end of 2026, raising questions about his long-term suitability for a club looking to build for the future. Still, he could represent a more cost-effective option compared to other midfielders who have been valued at upwards of £100 million. With Premier League experience now a priority for United—especially after the successes of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo following their respective moves from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brentford—Sangare’s credentials look increasingly attractive.
Elsewhere in the transfer market, Real Madrid are reportedly keeping a close eye on Tottenham’s Dutch center-back Micky van de Ven. The 24-year-old Netherlands international has yet to agree a new deal with Spurs, and Madrid’s interest is said to be intensifying. Meanwhile, Brighton are hoping to finalize a deal for Cologne’s 19-year-old German winger Said El Mala, with a plan to also sign his older brother Malek, 20, to sweeten the package.
Liverpool are also making headlines, with rumors circulating about a possible swap deal involving Brazilian winger Rodrygo and Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai. The proposed deal would see Rodrygo move to Anfield while Szoboszlai heads to Real Madrid, though talks remain at an early stage. Chelsea, meanwhile, are determined to hold onto 23-year-old striker Liam Delap, despite interest from Everton. Manager Liam Rosenior is reportedly reluctant to sanction a move, preferring to keep Delap as part of his plans for the upcoming season.
Crystal Palace have decided to keep faith in Austrian manager Oliver Glasner, allowing him to continue leading the team until the end of the season. The Eagles are also among a trio of clubs—including Aston Villa and Wolves—interested in signing Liverpool’s Scotland left-back Andy Robertson, should the 31-year-old decide to seek a new challenge this summer. Nottingham Forest, for their part, could be open to offers for Brazilian striker Igor Jesus, 24, at the end of the current campaign.
As the transfer window approaches, speculation and negotiations are set to intensify. For Manchester United, the focus remains on securing the right blend of experience, physicality, and tactical discipline in midfield. Whether they opt for a nostalgic reunion with McTominay, the physical presence of Sangare, or a combination of both, one thing is certain: the summer promises to be anything but dull at Old Trafford.
With Casemiro preparing for a new adventure and United’s recruitment team working overtime, the coming months will be crucial in shaping the club’s fortunes for the 2026-27 season. Fans will be watching closely as deals develop and the next generation of Red Devils takes shape.