Manchester United

Six players quit Man Utd in exodus as £700k struck off wage bill and new £35m signing agreed

Manchester United have officially bid farewell to six players as Michael Carrick's squad overhaul continues at speed. The club are set to return to European football's elite next season after the former skipper's stint in the dugout brought success to Old Trafford. Under Carrick, the previously faltering side recorded 12 wins, four draws and just two defeats, propelling them to third place and securing a Champions League spot. Now, with his position made permanent, the ex- Middlesbrough boss is parting ways with a number of players as the new month gets underway. Jadon Sancho , Casemiro , Tyrell Malacia , Sonny Aljofree, Malachi Sharpe and James Bailey have all cut ties with the club following the expiry of their contracts. The exits of Sancho and Casemiro have slashed a staggering £700,000 from the weekly wage bill, with the pair each pocketing £350,000 per week at Old Trafford. The Brazilian midfielder confirmed his departure back in January, having become a beloved star to supporters during his four-year spell at the club. Casemiro lifted the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during his spell, and despite fans' efforts to persuade him otherwise, the 34-year-old stood firm on his choice. FOLLOW OUR MAN UTD FB PAGE! Latest United news and more on our dedicated Facebook page Declaring his affection for United on social media, the midfielder said: "There are places we pass through in life... and there are places that become part of who we are. Manchester will forever be my home. "To the city, the club, and every supporter, my sincerest thank you. These past four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments my family and I will carry with us for the rest of our lives. "There simply aren't enough words to describe the happiness and warmth we've felt here. Thank you for every cheer, every memory, and for making us feel at home from the very first day. Forever a Red Devil." By contrast, Sancho faced a more difficult journey at United after his 2021 switch from Borussia Dortmund . The £73million winger turned out 83 times for the club, scoring 12 goals and contributing six assists. He spent much of his Old Trafford career away on loan, initially at Dortmund, then at Chelsea , and finally at Aston Villa . United had attempted to move Sancho on during the previous two summer windows without success, and will now be forced to accept his departure on a free transfer this year. Malacia arrived in 2022 and showed early promise, clocking up 39 appearances in all competitions during his debut campaign. However, a severe knee injury derailed any momentum and he managed just 12 outings following his return in November 2024. Aljofree, Bailey and Sharpe are set to leave United's academy and will receive assistance from the Old Trafford hierarchy in securing new clubs. Meanwhile, Carrick is preparing to welcome his first summer arrival as Ederson completes his move following the World Cup. The Atalanta midfielder will join for an initial £35million, with an additional £3.8million in add-ons. Further targets in midfield include Mateus Fernandes, Alex Scott, Carlos Baleba and Aurelien Tchouameni.

2026-07-01

Wayne Rooney signs up to BBC forfeit if England World Cup quarter-final scenario plays out

Wayne Rooney has promised to perform Norway's iconic row if they beat Brazil and reach the quarter-finals and end up potentially facing England. The Manchester United and England icon vowed to do the Viking Row in the River Mersey in the North West should they stun the record holders. Erling Haaland scored the winner late on as the Europeans edged past Ivory Coast in Dallas. Antonio Nusa broke the deadlock to give Stale Solbakken's side the lead on the stroke of half-time but United's Amad scored a wonderful solo effort to restore parity. The game looked set to head to extra-time but Haaland was on hand to steer home his 60th goal for Norway , becoming the fastest ever international talisman to reach that landmark. BBC presenter Gabby Logan joked that Rooney had been practicing the post-match ritual, which has become a breakout star from this summer's World Cup, and the pundit made a promise if Norway reach the last eight. "They're preparing to do their iconic row. Wayne has been practicing; he hasn't promised to deliver it tonight, but before the end of the tournament. If Norway end up beating Brazil, there is a possibility, if England get through, they'd face England," Logan said. Rooney replied: "If Norway get to the quarter-finals, I will go in the River Mersey and I'll row down it." Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now! As the Icelandic clap did at Euro 2016, Norway's Viking Row has taken the World Cup by storm with supporters stealing the show with the phenomenon. It has since gone mainstream with Martin Odegaard leading the orchestra post-match while Ryder Cup star Viktor Hovland broke out into his own rendition during his Traveller's Championship PGA Tour event win last weekend. Traditionally, it starts with the blowing of a traditional Norse horn before everyone sits down on the floor in a formation resembling a Viking longboat. The leader bangs a drum, which has become the fabric of the chant at the World Cup across North America. The drum starts slowly at first and quickens with every beat while the fans row their arms back in unison and chant, "row". Rooney, who has been a regular for BBC since being relieved of his duties as Birmingham City manager in 2024, says he will perform the action in the River Mersey, a major river in the North West, should they beat Brazil. The 40-year-old will learn his fate after the showdown on July 5 (8pm kick-off) when the two nations showdown at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Rooney may be hoping that Haaland doesn't stun Carlo Ancelotti's side and book their place in the last-eight. But should the FIFA-ranked 31st nation in the world do so, the Everton academy graduate may be relieved that he will be forced to honour his bet in the summer and not in the winter when the temperatures of the Mersey waters plummet. In doing so, he wouldn't be the first member of the BBC Sport broadcast team to fulfil a promise after Gary Lineker presented Match of the Day in his boxers after Leicester City's famous Premier League triumph in 2016. Logan said: "You heard that here first! It's not exactly presenting Match of the Day in your underpants, but I think it's a fairly good thing to commit to. I'm pretty sure we'll hold you to that as well."

2026-06-30

Man Utd blown out of the water as Tottenham agree Mateus Fernandes transfer deal

Tottenham have blown Manchester United out of the water by agreeing an £85million deal for Mateus Fernandes. Spurs offered the highest bid for Fernandes, 21, who's poised to make the move across London. The Portuguese was among United's top targets for the summer transfer window , as Michael Carrick looks to rebuild his midfield. But Mirror Football understands that £85m is well above their valuation, paving the way for Tottenham to win the race. Fernandes became United's priority after they pulled out of a move for Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson. In similar circumstances, the Red Devils weren't willing to match the £116m bid which Manchester City have been successful with. It leaves United scouring the market for an alternative, with midfield stalwart Casemiro leaving upon the expiry of his contract on Wednesday. Carrick's side have, though, agreed a £35m deal with Atalanta to sign holding midfielder Ederson. Get the latest World Cup 2026 news in your inbox with our Make Football Great Again newsletter As for Tottenham, Fernandes is expected to become their fifth summer signing. Spurs have already wrapped up deals for Andy Robertson , Marcos Senesi and Martin Dubravka - each one a free transfer - while they paid Brighton £52m for Jan Paul van Hecke. Like United, Tottenham are now focussing on midfield. With Yves Bissouma due to leave when his contract expires and Joao Palhinha's loan having come to an end, there's now the possibility of another departure after Lucas Bergvall informed club chiefs that he wants a new challenge. Roberto De Zerbi's men narrowly avoided relegation at West Ham 's expense and have capitalised on the Irons needing to bring in funds. Jarrod Bowen is another West Ham star who several Premier League clubs are interested in. Is Mateus Fernandes worth £85million? Have your say in the comments section . The sale of Fernandes represents a huge profit for the Irons, who bought him from Southampton for £38m a year ago. Although he was unable to help West Ham avoid dropping to the Championship , the 21-year-old impressed with his consistent performances. Fernandes scored four goals and registered four assists in 38 appearances across all competitions. He also made his debut for Portugal in April, although he missed out on Roberto Martinez's 26-man squad for the World Cup. Join our new MAN UTD WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football . We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2026-06-30

Arsenal transfer state of play as Bruno Guimaraes chase takes twist after offer for £80m star

Alex Scott is the latest midfielder Arsenal have made overtures to as they attempt to enhance the squad that won the Premier League title last season. After three years of coming up just short in the title race, Mikel Arteta oversaw the Gunners' first league success since 2004 last month. And while the club may have been unable to follow that up with a maiden Champions League triumph, they are not resting on their laurels ahead of the new season and have aspirations of strengthening significantly in the transfer window. As well as a desire to level up the left side of their attack, Arsenal are seeking further strength in midfield and hold an interest in Scott and the Newcastle duo, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali. However, as their rivals Tottenham and Manchester United are finding in their pursuit of West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, proven Premier League midfielders are not easily attainable these days. Fernandes is valued at £85million by West Ham , just shy of the £80m price tag that has been placed upon Scott. The 22-year-old's valuation is not the only obstacle Arsenal have encountered, either. BBC Sport report they have now had an approach for the midfielder rebuffed by Bournemouth , whose insistence that one of the Premier League's most promising young players is not for sale this summer would seemingly make any prospective deal difficult. It remains to be seen if Arsenal, or any of Scott's other suitors, will attempt to seriously test that stance. Bournemouth are attempting to tie Scott down to fresh terms with a new contract which would include a release clause. Where that leaves Arsenal in their pursuit of another central midfielder remains to be seen. Newcastle have adopted an identical stance with Guimaraes, who they consider unsellable. Whether or not that will deter Arsenal from making further advances — they have already made contact through intermediaries and seen a verbal offer rebuffed — is up for debate and there are already rumblings that the club are ready to go back in for him. The same report claims that a deal for Guimaraes is currently viewed as more likely than one for Tonali irrespective of Newcastle's refusal to countenance a sale. The sort of transfer fee it may take to force Newcastle into reneging on a deal for Guimaraes is likely to be vast and, perhaps questionable given the player turns 29 later this year. But at the same time, the Brazilian is a proven Premier League commodity and would be primed to make an instant impact. Tonali is being pursued aggressively by Tottenham, while Manchester City are also admirers of the Italian and could be prepared to finance the significant figures it would take to satisfy Newcastle's demands. Arsenal have been credited with an interest in other central midfielders, too, including Ayyoub Bouaddi who has enjoyed a highly impressive World Cup campaign with Morocco . Fernandes is another player to be touted with the Gunners and the longer a deal evades both Manchester United and Spurs, the prospect of other suitors coming to the table may well grow. With Morgan Rogers emerging as Arsenal's priority attacking target, transfer funds will have to be proportioned appropriately with Aston Villa reportedly insistent that a British record fee be paid for the 23-year-old. Whether that will have a direct impact on Arsenal's plans for central midfield remains to be seen. There are plenty of irons in the fire — only time will tell where they plan to strike. Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now! Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2026-06-30

Matheus Cunha's classy World Cup act can't hide uncomfortable Brazil truth for Man Utd star

Matheus Cunha is too humble to compare himself to Neymar. It wouldn't enter his head to talk about himself in the same breath as Brazil's greatest ever goalscorer. Since joining Manchester United , Cunha has impressed senior figures and staff with how grounded he remains. He can be spotted putting in extra sessions in the players' gym at Carrington. He has volunteered to be part of community projects and appearances, when he didn't have to. And if more proof were needed Cunha remains sincere and likeable, despite his wealth and fame, it came in the Houston Stadium following Brazil ’s thrilling win over Japan . At the final whistle, Cunha celebrated. Before realising it was a moment which required kindness more than personal happiness. Cunha made a bee-line for Ao Tanaka, the Leeds United midfielder who was in floods of tears. Japan had conceded a late, stoppage time goal to lose, and would be heading home instead of into the last 16. Cunha put his arms around Tanaka, before offering his opponent some comforting words It was a touching moment. One which personified what Cunha is all about. Which leads the narrative surrounding Cunha into the awkward stuff. Because there is a general feeling he lacks the grit to go with the guile needed to become a great footballer, instead of a good one. Cunha has been at the heart of what Brazil have done well up to now: he has given Carlo Ancelotti another reason not to trust Neymar, who has missed the last three seasons, but is fit and available again. Brazil supporters are used to having a traditional No.9. But Cunha is different. He can perform this role, as well as being a No.10 as well. He can score goals, and make them too. But against Japan he did neither. Like those around him, Cunha looked lost in a first half which saw Brazil fail to register a single shot on target. He wasn't creative. He wasn't physical. He wasn't finishing chances or creating them. His one attempt on target failed to test Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. In the end Ancelotti had seen enough and hauled Cunha off. He had lasted a few minutes more than an hour. Cunha looked like someone who couldn't get off the pitch quick enough. It was the fastest he'd moved all game. And his substitution proved to be another Ancelotti masterstroke. Because Cunha's replacement, Gabriel Martinelli, ended up winning the game with almost the last kick of it. Cunha has a lot of talent. Almost as much as compassion. But it's what he does with his feet and head, as opposed to his heart, that Ancelotti is most interested in. Ancelotti needs Cunha to do more, if Brazil are to stand a realistic chance of winning what would be their first World Cup since 2002. But on sure evidence, even managing this would not elevate Cunha to the level of his nation's true greats. And when Neymar decides to call time on his international career and pass the baton to someone else, the chances are he will hand it to Vinicius Jr - not Cunha. Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now! Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2026-06-30

Stoke City old boy to return to Premier League in transfer swap deal

Hull City swooping for keeper as part of frantic business to beat football financial rules deadline

2026-06-29

Why Arsenal, Man Utd and Liverpool all want to sign World Cup star Ayyoub Bouaddi

It's a tale as old as time. Clubs signing a player off the back of an international tournament. Certainly a tale older than 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi, who's attracting interest from Europe's elite while he shines at the World Cup . The Morocco wonderkid has helped the African champions reach the round of 32, where they'll face the Netherlands in a match which kicks off at 2am Tuesday UK time. The higher-ups at Arsenal , Manchester United and Liverpool may well stay up to tune in and see what all the fuss is about. There are more teams eyeing the midfielder up, too, with Manchester City also linked alongside Real Madrid , Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain . Bouaddi started both of Morocco's opening games, helping them to a 1-1 draw with Brazil before beating Scotland 1-0. He dropped to the bench for last week's 4-2 victory over Haiti but he's in contention to start against the Dutch in Guadalupe, giving Bouaddi the chance to truly announce himself on the world stage. Get the latest World Cup 2026 news in your inbox with our Make Football Great Again newsletter Like most of Morocco's squad, Bouaddi wasn't actually born there. Instead, he comes from Senlis in northern France to Moroccan parents and represented the French at every level from under-16 to under-21. His football career began with lower-league club Creil, spending nine years in their academy before being picked up by Lille in 2021. Two years later at the age of 16, he became the club's youngest debutant and signed his first professional contract. A regular at first-term level ever since, the teenager extended his deal in December 2025. Bouaddi made 42 appearances last term to help Lille finish third in Ligue 1 and qualify for the Champions League . Which Premier League club should sign Ayyoub Bouaddi? Have your say in the comments section . Defensively diligent, Bouaddi excels at breaking up play and snuffing out attacks. Sitting at the base of midfield, he's what's known in football as 'press resistant'. That description is a green flag for sides who want to build from deep and avoid being caught in their own half. At 6ft 1in, he uses his body to shield the ball and has the athleticism to drive forward. Bouaddi enjoys dribbling and glides around as he looks to progress the ball. He knows his position inside out, too, as both his club and country use a 4-2-3-1 formation. Only 18 and under contract until 2029, Bouaddi has time on his side. While Lille reportedly value him at £43million, the prospect of a bidding war seems real. Bouaddi himself has admitted that he's 'really happy' about the interest, but his priority is on Morocco. "For the moment, I'm only focused on the World Cup," he said earlier this month. "I cannot answer this right now. I am really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me, but for now, I'm here focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best." Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2026-06-29

Man Utd's summer transfer plans uncovered including Osimhen links and Fernandes latest

The World Cup is grabbing attention across North America but nearer to home the transfer window has opened and Manchester United are looking to bolster Michael Carrick's squad. A move for Brazil midfielder Ederson has been secured, after a £35m agreement was reached with Atalanta. But so far United have encountered setbacks in their bid to build upon it. Daily Star Sport's sister title the Manchester Evening News have been exploring the lack of progress and here, their Red Devils expert Tyrone Marshall looks at exactly what is on the agenda. The key figure when it comes to transfers at the Premier League giants is director of football Jason Wilcox, who often leads negotiations with agents and helps to sell the project at Old Trafford to players. Wilcox is also the person quoted when deals are confirmed. He is supported by the director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell, whose power base has grown at Old Trafford over the last 18 months or so. JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page The former RB Leipzig and Chelsea transfer guru pushed for the signing of Benjamin Sesko last summer and heads up a recruitment department that has pivoted towards data over the last two years. Vivell oversees United's scouting operation, both in-person and data-led, and can be another key contact for agents. He also has a strong say in identifying targets to strengthen the squad. Another key figure is director of negotiations Matt Hargreaves, who leads negotiations on player sales and departures with other clubs, aiming to secure the best possible deal for United. But what are the tasks at hand for these figures? United continue to pursue a deal for Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and are targeting a left-sided player, a reserve goalkeeper, and an additional striker. Exits are also being considered, though Manuel Ugarte and Marcus Rashford are currently concentrating on the World Cup . Joshua Zirkzee might depart this summer, alongside a trio of shot-stoppers. I believe there's a strong possibility United will bring in another midfielder even if they land Fernandes, but it hinges on securing a buyer for Manuel Ugarte. He hasn't enjoyed a stellar World Cup, has now suffered an injury, and that will complicate efforts to generate interest in him. United have no desire to force him through the exit and they recognise he's two years into a five-year deal, meaning he still carries a book value of roughly £30million. That appears optimistic at present. However, if they can offload him, or arrange a loan with an obligation to purchase, then there's a plan to bring in a third midfielder this summer. I think of all the players mentioned, Carlos Baleba is the perfect player for United. It's relatively quiet around the 22-year-old but he remains on the radar. Unlike some of the other midfielders United have been chasing this summer, he is one they don't appear to face much rivalry for. The scouting team still rate him highly, as they did last summer, but the stumbling block remains the price tag. Brighton demanded £100million in 2025 and that asking price doesn't seem to have budged. But the longer United go without landing a top-tier midfielder, the more probable it becomes that Baleba re-enters their considerations. United might bring in a new left-back, though that isn't certain, but I can't envisage a situation where they recruit a centre-back. There is an appetite to sign a left-sided player this summer, but it could be a winger instead of a left-back, with Patrick Dorgu dropping deeper. Regarding the heart of defence, United boast five senior centre-backs in Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven. It's difficult to justify financially keeping six players in that role. The worry is clearly around fitness, with Maguire, Martinez and De Ligt all having endured their struggles. Martinez requires a campaign where he remains injury-free to secure a fresh deal, but there is optimism that the operation De Ligt underwent on his back means that problem is now resolved. Looking to the attack, United have been associated with Nigerian goal machine Victor Osimhen numerous times, but that boat has now sailed. The 27-year-old has been scoring goals aplenty for Galatasaray in Turkey, but it would require a hefty fee to secure him and he is on substantial wages, given the tax breaks for high earners in that country. I'm not convinced any club will strike a deal for Osimhen considering the financial implications in the current climate. Certainly not United, who view Benjamin Sesko as their future No. 9. Reports from Spain suggest Sesko is on their shortlist to replace Robert Lewandowski, although it's evident their prime target for that role is Julian Alvarez. United haven't received any offer or indication of interest from Barcelona for Sesko and aren't taking those links too seriously at present. There was considerable frustration over how Barca handled the Marcus Rashford deal, and United will be hesitant to engage in transactions with them for some time, even if they were inclined to sell Sesko. Which they're not. How many players United will purchase hinges on how the market evolves, who gets sold, what fees are generated and any opportunities that arise. But I would predict at least a second midfielder, and a third if Ugarte departs. A left-sided player, likely a left-back or left-winger, and at this point, it's improbable to be both. Then there will be a goalkeeper to provide cover for Senne Lammens and a striker to offer assistance to Sesko, though the latter may hinge somewhat on Zirkzee's future.

2026-06-29

Birmingham City defender set for EFL transfer as summer reshuffle continues

The Birmingham City academy graduate is poised for his first taste of EFL football

2026-06-29

Man Utd have clear transfer priority after Manuel Ugarte injury and £116m Elliot Anderson snub

Teddy Sheringham has called on Manchester United to intensify their interest in Adam Wharton, following their failure to land Elliot Anderson. Manchester City have struck a deal with Nottingham Forest for the midfielder worth in the region of £116million . With his arrival now seemingly a formality, United have one fewer midfield target to chase as they seek a long-term replacement for the departing Casemiro . The Red Devils have been connected with a host of players since the Brazilian's exit was confirmed earlier this year, and separating genuine transfer interest from mere speculation has proven no easy task for supporters. However, according to Sheringham , who turned out for United between 1997 and 2001, Crystal Palace's Wharton should be the club's primary target. Speaking to BOYLE Sports, he said: "Adam Wharton missing out on the World Cup makes it a good time for Manchester United to get that deal done. "I think Elliot Anderson is the better player but I do like the both of them. They're both very comfortable on the ball. "There's been a lot of talk about Elliot Anderson going to Manchester United but Anderson or Wharton would be a very good acquisition for me. [Michael] Carrick knows when you're Manchester United and you're playing at home at Old Trafford you need to camp in the other team's half. "You need to box them in. You can't rely on hitting teams on the break when you're at Old Trafford but he will know that. "He's experienced that as a player and he will know what type of players it will take to do that again. It's not just about telling a person that this is what's expected when you haven't got the players to do it. Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now! "You can't do it without the right players. That's why he needs to go and sign someone like Elliot Anderson or Adam Wharton who can win the ball high up the pitch, keep the play going in the final third, finding that pass to recycle it and keep the ball, and stop opponents getting out. "That's tough to do. Hopefully he can go out and get the right players that can do that." The comments come as United have been dealt a devastating blow, with Manuel Ugarte suffering a knee ligament injury at the World Cup which could rule him out for months. The Uruguayan was carried off on a stretcher after twisting awkwardly during his country's encounter with Spain on Saturday, with United confirming the grim news shortly afterwards. An official statement from the club read: "Manchester United can confirm that Manuel Ugarte has suffered a knee ligament injury whilst representing Uruguay in Friday's World Cup group-stage match against Spain. "Assessment of the injury is ongoing to determine the best course of treatment and the rehabilitation timescale. Everyone wishes Manuel a successful recovery and we will be supporting him every step of the way." Ugarte had been considered expendable at Old Trafford this summer, having struggled to leave his mark since his 2024 switch from Paris Saint-Germain . Yet any hopes of offloading him now appear to have been dashed by what the player himself has described as "the most serious injury a footballer can face." He took to Instagram to write: "A few days have passed since everything happened. Suffering the most serious injury a footballer can face in one of the most important matches in my country's history, and seeing it end this way without being able to stay on the pitch and support my teammates until the final whistle, is something that will stay with me for the rest of my life. "Hitting rock bottom will make me stronger in every sense, and I truly believe that's the case here. Without a doubt, when life wants you to stop, it finds a way to let you know. "It's up to me to take the positives from this. Success in life is about starting again every time you fall. I'm incredibly grateful to @aufoficial and @manutd for being there for me from the moment it happened. "A huge thank you as well to my family, my friends, and everyone who has sent me messages of support during this time. I'll be back stronger." Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

2026-06-29