Ederson deal done but United face uphill battle to reshape midfield and attack this summer

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Brazil midfielder Ederson, but the club’s summer rebuild is moving slowly as they work through a congested list of targets under manager Michael Carrick.

A move for West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes is still being negotiated, while United also intend to bring in a left-sided player, a backup goalkeeper, and another forward before the window closes. Departures are expected to run in parallel, with Joshua Zirkzee among those who could leave, along with a trio of goalkeepers.

Midfield reinforcements hinge on Ugarte exit

Whether United add a third midfielder this summer depends largely on finding a buyer for Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan has not impressed at the World Cup, which complicates efforts to generate interest. United are conscious that he is two years into a five-year contract and carry a book value of around £30 million — a figure that currently looks difficult to achieve on the open market. A loan deal with an obligation to buy remains an option.

Carlos Baleba of Brighton is still on the club’s radar, though talks have been quiet. The recruitment team have admired the Cameroonian since last summer, but Brighton’s valuation — reported at £100 million in 2025 — has not moved. The longer United go without securing a top-level central midfielder, the more likely Baleba is to re-enter serious consideration.

Defensive additions unlikely beyond a left-sided option

United are not expected to sign a centre-back this summer. With Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, and Ayden Heaven already on the books, the club see little financial justification for adding a sixth senior option in that position.

Fitness remains a concern across that group — Martinez, Maguire, and De Ligt have all had significant injury issues — but there is cautious optimism that De Ligt’s recent back surgery has resolved his recurring problem. Martinez, meanwhile, needs a full season of availability to earn a new contract.

A left-sided signing is more likely, though it may take the form of a winger rather than a left-back, with Patrick Dorgu capable of covering that flank defensively.

Osimhen and Barcelona links

Victor Osimhen has been linked with United for some time, but no concrete move has materialised. The Nigerian striker’s situation remains unresolved heading into the second half of the window. Barcelona’s reported interest in United players has also surfaced in supporter questions, though no specific deal appears imminent from the club’s side.

With the window open and several threads still live, United’s summer is far from settled.