Planning ahead for 2026, Manchester United are now reportedly among the clubs leading the way in the race to sign a want-away star in a deal worth over £50m.
Man Utd's 2026 transfer targets
It’s no surprise that Man United are already thinking about 2026 targets. INEOS still have plenty to do before the Red Devils are an established top four team again and that starts with the next transfer window. Having already spent around £200m in the summer too, there’s little doubt that they’re willing to back Ruben Amorim.
Those at Old Trafford will be hoping to see Senne Lammens, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo all come good this season in what would hand Amorim a major boost. The Man United boss has already seen praise arrive for Mbeumo and will be desperate to see others find form to receive similar recognition.
Speaking about the former Brentford man, United legend Wayne Rooney said on his podcast, ‘The Wayne Show’: “He looks like the type of character who would be fine with it (going back to his old club).
“I think he’s been a real positive for Man United this season. I think his energy, his running off the ball, his commitment, he’s scored a couple of goals, he could have had more. So I’ve been really happy. I think he’s been, out of all the signings, the most positive one. And he looks like someone who will just take it in his stride.”
It’s the type of signing that the Red Devils must aim for in 2026, with rumours already throwing up some interesting names. Following up from their summer spending, INEOS are already reportedly eyeing moves for Adam Wharton, Dusan Vlahovic and are among the leaders in the race to welcome a La Liga talent next year.
Man Utd one of leading clubs in Gallagher race
According to reports in Spain, Man United are one of the leading clubs in the race to sign Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid in 2026. The midfielder reportedly wants to leave the Spanish club in an attempt to secure his England World Cup spot and is valued at around £52m ahead of January.
Other Premier League clubs are reportedly interested in the midfielder, but it is United who have expressed interest at this stage, having had an offer rejected in the summer. Another former Chelsea player, the Red Devils will be hoping to secure a solution for their midfield problems.
Minutes
1,633
1,785
Progressive Passes
64
61
Tackles Won
32
49
Progressive Carries
24
16
Dubbed “intense” by Diego Simeone, Gallagher’s work in possession is particularly impressive compared to Ugarte. The England international would hand United the control that they’re looking for as a result and could also see Bruno Fernandes pushed back into one of the two advanced midfield roles.
When 2026 arrives, the Red Devils would be wise to pursue Gallagher in hope of finally stabilising what has been a struggling midfield for far too long at Old Trafford.