In 2026, Manchester United completed transfers exceeding £250 million for six players. Who is on the January 2026 transfer list for Manchester United? Seven midfielders have been shortlisted as Manchester United gear up for a major squad overhaul in the summer of 2026.
Manchester United are preparing for a major midfield overhaul in 2026 as Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS regime and head coach Ruben Amorim move to reshape the club’s core. After another inconsistent season marked by a lack of control, intensity, and balance in midfield, United have identified this department as the top priority for rebuilding.
With uncertainty surrounding several senior and emerging players, the club has drawn up an ambitious seven-man shortlist that blends Premier League-proven talent with elite European profiles.
Sources close to the recruitment process suggest United could sign at least one — and potentially two — midfielders in the 2026 summer window, with January opportunities also being explored.
The strategy aligns with Amorim’s tactical demands and INEOS’ long-term vision to modernize the squad with younger, athletic, and tactically flexible players.
Why Manchester United Are Planning a Midfield Revamp?
Table of Contents
Manchester United’s midfield struggles during the 2025–26 season have exposed long-standing structural issues. Despite moments of individual brilliance, the unit has often lacked cohesion, defensive security, and consistent ball progression — all areas Ruben Amorim considers essential in his preferred 3-4-3 system.
Several key players face uncertain futures:
- Bruno Fernandes remains United’s creative leader but continues to attract interest from Saudi clubs, with speculation around his long-term role.
- Casemiro is approaching the end of his contract and has struggled to maintain peak physical levels.
- Kobbie Mainoo, despite his talent, has seen limited minutes under Amorim, raising questions about his development path.
- Manuel Ugarte has shown flashes of quality but has yet to fully convince the coaching staff.
INEOS believes a refresh is necessary to build a midfield capable of competing with the Premier League’s elite and matching Amorim’s high-intensity philosophy.
Manchester United’s Seven-Man Midfield Shortlist for 2026
United’s recruitment team, led by technical director Jason Wilcox and director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, has identified seven primary targets for the 2026 window:
1. Carlos Baleba (Brighton)
One of the most sought-after young midfielders in England, the 21-year-old is admired for his ball-winning, physical presence, and ability to drive play forward. Brighton value him highly, with a potential fee exceeding £100 million, but United see him as a long-term cornerstone.
2. Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)
A composed and intelligent midfielder, Wharton has impressed with his passing range, positional awareness, and maturity. United view him as a future England regular and one of the most complete midfield profiles available domestically.
3. Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)
Anderson has developed into a dynamic, high-output midfielder with exceptional passing metrics. His energy and versatility make him an attractive option, though Forest would demand a significant fee.
4. João Gomes (Wolves)
A more affordable option, Gomes offers pace, aggression, and defensive intensity. His Premier League experience and tactical discipline appeal to United as a reliable option for rotation or partnership roles.
5. André (Wolves)
Another Wolves midfielder on United’s radar, André brings athleticism and pressing ability. He fits Amorim’s system well and could be a value addition compared to higher-profile targets.
6. Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart)
Highly rated in Germany, Stiller offers composure, technical control, and leadership beyond his years. United see him as a potential deep-lying playmaker who could thrive in a structured system.
7. Conor Gallagher (Atlético Madrid)
Gallagher’s work rate, leadership, and Premier League pedigree keep him firmly in United’s plans. A loan-to-buy deal in January 2026 is being considered if circumstances align.
January vs Summer 2026: United’s Transfer Strategy and Timeline
January 2026
United are expected to remain cautious in January, prioritizing short-term solutions or opportunistic deals. A loan signing — possibly Gallagher or a cut-price experienced midfielder — could provide immediate depth without disrupting summer plans.
Summer 2026
The summer window is where INEOS plans to make decisive moves. United are targeting two midfield signings if budget allows, aiming to pair a ball-winning presence with a progressive, creative option.
Funding the Rebuild
A possible “fire sale” could bankroll these plans, with high earners and fringe players likely to be offloaded. Securing a European qualification would give a big boost to spending power, and the club is set on staying within financial rules while still going hard in the market.
Tactical Fit Under Ruben Amorim
Amorim demands midfielders who are:
- Comfortable in high-pressure systems
- Strong in transitions
- Capable of quick vertical passing
- Disciplined in positional play
The shortlisted players reflect these priorities, signaling a shift away from ageing profiles toward younger, more athletic, and system-compatible midfielders.
A Defining Moment for Manchester United
Manchester United’s midfield rebuild in 2026 could mark the club’s most important structural reset since the post-Pogba era. With INEOS setting a long-term sporting vision and Ruben Amorim enforcing clear tactical demands, the coming windows will shape whether United can finally restore balance, intensity, and identity in midfield.
Why are Manchester United planning a midfield overhaul in 2026?
Manchester United are planning a midfield rebuild in 2026 due to a lack of consistency, ageing players, and tactical mismatches under Ruben Amorim. INEOS wants younger, more athletic, and system-compatible midfielders.
Which midfielders could leave Manchester United in 2026?
Players such as Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Manuel Ugarte, and even Kobbie Mainoo face uncertain futures due to contracts, form, or tactical fit.
Who are the top midfield targets for Manchester United in 2026?
Manchester United’s shortlist includes Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, João Gomes, André, Angelo Stiller, and Conor Gallagher.
Could Manchester United sign midfielders in January 2026?
United may explore loan or low-cost deals in January 2026, but the main midfield investment is expected in the summer transfer window.
