Manchester United have already begun laying the groundwork for what is expected to be a major overhaul in next summer’s transfer window, with a particular focus on strengthening the midfield.
Although the 2025/26 campaign is still in its early months, the club is quietly preparing a long-term strategy aimed at reshaping the squad while simultaneously bringing the wage structure under tighter control.
Early reports suggest that United are seriously exploring moves for Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest and Carlos Baleba of Brighton two emerging Premier League talents who fit perfectly into Ruben Amorim’s vision of a younger, more energetic midfield.
A new direction for United’s squad building
United’s recent transfer activity has been widely praised, especially the additions of Bryan Mbeumo and goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who have been seen as smart acquisitions with an eye on the future.
However, one area that the club’s management has been determined to reinforce is the midfield.
For several seasons, the lack of athleticism, creativity, and overall depth in central areas has been a major weakness, preventing United from properly challenging for top honours.
Next summer provides an ideal opportunity to fix that problem once and for all.
According to ESPN, United have devised a financial plan that could free up £52 million annually in wages, largely by offloading high earners such as Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford.
Reducing the wage bill would allow the club to bring in younger, hungrier players without returning to the inflated salary models that have caused issues in previous years.
One source explained the new vision clearly: “The club wants players who are talented, hardworking, and financially sustainable in terms of wages.”
Why Anderson and Baleba stand out
Both Anderson and Baleba fit the club’s new transfer philosophy perfectly. They are young, highly rated, Premier League-proven, and — crucially — not on massive wages.
Anderson earns about £45,000 per week at Nottingham Forest, while Baleba is on even less at Brighton, making them financially attractive signings.
Elliot Anderson, 22, has become a vital figure for Forest. His technical quality, ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, and his sharpness in transition play have made him one of the most promising midfielders of his age group.
United see him as a player who can be developed into a key starter while offering depth and versatility right from the beginning.
Carlos Baleba, 21, is widely regarded as one of Brighton’s brightest young stars. Known for his energy, on-ball intelligence, and creativity, he could seamlessly complement players like Bruno Fernandes and rising sensation Kobbie Mainoo. His arrival would bring more drive, imagination, and balance to United’s midfield setup.
Adding both players would help United assemble a midfield with a blend of youth, experience, athleticism, and technical class — something the club has lacked for years.
A financially smarter approach
While the combined cost for the two midfielders could surpass £150 million, Manchester United’s revised strategy shows far more financial responsibility compared to previous eras.
Instead of overspending on aging stars with huge wage demands, the club is investing in players with long-term potential and reasonable salary expectations.
This marks a clear shift away from the old habit of signing big names past their prime — a pattern that often left the club with unbalanced finances and inconsistent performances on the pitch.
Under Amorim, the focus is now firmly on building a sustainable squad that can compete consistently over the next decade.
A midfield rebuild fans can believe in
Should United complete deals for Anderson and Baleba, their midfield could undergo a dramatic transformation.
With Bruno Fernandes offering leadership, Mainoo providing youthful intensity, and the potential arrivals bringing energy and creativity, United could finally develop a midfield capable of controlling matches and challenging the league’s best teams.
There will, of course, be competition from other Premier League clubs, but United appear determined to pursue both targets aggressively. The planning is already in motion a sign of a more strategic and disciplined recruitment approach.
For supporters, the prospect of seeing Anderson and Baleba in Manchester United colours is an exciting one. Not only would their arrivals strengthen the squad, but they also represent a new era of smart spending, long-term planning, and careful financial management a combination that could push United toward a much brighter future.
