Manchester United FC are believed to be considering a significant summer approach for Pape Gueye, as they continue plans to restructure their squad ahead of next season.
After investing more than £200 million during the previous transfer window — securing the arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha, Diego León, and Senne Lammens — expectations were high that the club would experience a far more stable and competitive campaign.
Instead, familiar issues resurfaced, with inconsistency once again undermining progress and echoing the frustrations of the prior season.
The uneven run of results ultimately led to the dismissal of Rúben Amorim, prompting the club to appoint Michael Carrick as interim manager for the remainder of the season.
Carrick has overseen an encouraging spell, collecting four wins and one draw from his opening five matches.
His calm leadership and tactical adjustments have steadied performances, and a growing section of supporters now believe he could be worthy of consideration for the permanent position.
Irrespective of who assumes the managerial role long term, United’s executives are already outlining their recruitment priorities. Strengthening the midfield has emerged as a central objective
. The club are expected to pursue at least one — and potentially two — additions in that area, aiming to introduce greater balance, defensive security, and control in the middle of the park.
According to Spanish publication Fichajes, United are prepared to submit a proposal in the region of €60 million (£52 million) to test Villarreal CF’s willingness to part with Gueye.
The Senegal international is reportedly admired for his physical presence, ball-recovery skills, and tactical discipline — attributes viewed as essential in addressing weaknesses that have surfaced in key fixtures.
Club insiders suggest he is seen less as a glamorous, headline-making acquisition and more as a strategic piece designed to reinforce the team’s structural foundation.
However, contrasting reports have emerged. Journalist Pete O’Rourke, speaking via Football Insider, did not list Gueye among United’s foremost midfield targets.
He emphasized that central midfield remains a priority, particularly with Casemiro anticipated to move on and uncertainty lingering over Manuel Ugarte’s future at the club.
Instead, O’Rourke highlighted alternative names currently ranked higher on United’s shortlist, including Amadou Onana of Aston Villa FC, as well as Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Elliot Anderson.
Securing Onana, in particular, could prove complicated given Villa’s reluctance to part with influential players.
With substantial changes anticipated in midfield, United’s upcoming transfer activity could once again shape the club’s trajectory — determining whether this latest rebuild finally delivers the stability and sustained performance levels their supporters have long awaited.
