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Ports's rumours posts with other poster's replies to Ports's rumours posts
24 Jul 2026 13:32:35
Read last week, and it’s very difficult to know what to believe and what not to at this time of the year, so usually best to talk all stories, reports, whatever, with a pinch of salt. But one that has interested me was one story that United wanted Baleba’s agents and Baleba himself to push or agitate for a move to United before the club would explore and then take this forward.
I guess this is to give the club a better start position in negotiations. Well, it appears today that this is/has happening/happened, with stories coming out the agents have contacted United and Baleba saying a move to United last summer was a dream. As I say, take with a pinch of salt, but potentially one to watch.
1.) 24 Jul 2026 14:15:14
Ports - It sounds like he is desperate to come to United, but Brighton are no mugs when it comes to transfer fees. They will command top dollar, and I don't think that United will pay their valuation. They allegedly want north of 80 million for him.
2.) 24 Jul 2026 15:27:51
It's quite possibly one of those transfers that can wait a while. We do now have 2 new midfielders. Mount acquitted himself reasonably well last year, and with Mainoo and Bruno, there's the core of a solid squad, albeit yet to prove itself. So there's no desperation at play for the time being.
I think Tielemans will be used in the creative role should we be deprived of Bruno through injury. And it will be interesting to see how they mesh together. I think he may be even more effective than Bruno at finding those incisive forward passes for forwards to run on to, which may suit Mbeumo more. About 1/2 of Bruno's assists last year were from set pieces, many of which went to Casemiro.
That's probably not reproducible, so goals are going to have to come from other sources.
The question then is, do Brighton want to hold on to a player by holding out for a sum no one will give them after last season's dip in form, and then have him underperform again, further reducing his value, or cash in for a decent price and profit. A deal really ought to be doable at £75m or less... That is, assuming United are even interested. Somehow those players we failed to get during our initial phase of interest, and then finally get acquired, don't turn out too well. Hargreaves? Sancho? As indeed do those players who supposedly wanted to go to City but we scuppered the deal.
3.) 24 Jul 2026 15:53:08
Mount acquitted himself reasonably well last year - you must have been watching a different Mount. He had two or three half decent games.
54 games in 3 seasons.
He's been an absolute waste of money at 55 million pounds.
He's basically cost us a million pounds a game so far.
We won't be able to give him away due to his injury record.
4.) 24 Jul 2026 16:41:15
I watched pretty much every game last year. When Mount started, or mostly came on, we played better. The link up with the forwards and Bruno was better.
5.) 24 Jul 2026 16:57:11
From an ability perspective, I think Mount gets some unfair criticism. From an availability perspective, it's definitely been a frustrating transfer.
6.) 24 Jul 2026 21:28:09
Mount is a fine player and would be a huge asset to us if he was able to stay fit, but he can't, unfortunately. Great engine, gets around, very clever, has a good eye for an assist and a goal, but rarely starts or is able to stay fit.
I feel very sorry for him that it just hasn't happened here. I would love to see him stay fit.
7.) 24 Jul 2026 22:08:18
Madrid have come in for Rodri, which, if it happens, means Tchoumeni could be back on.
8.) 25 Jul 2026 10:00:06
I think if Rodri moves, then they'll sell one of Camavinga or touch my nanny.
Camavinga never really pressed on, sadly - Tchou is a much better player.
9.) 25 Jul 2026 11:57:46
The thing that puts me off these Madrid lads is the fact that they would much rather prefer to stay at Madrid given the choice.
10.) 25 Jul 2026 16:23:07
For your sake Eric, I hope it's the former!
11.) 25 Jul 2026 20:43:08
I hope we still away from Camavigna. He needed Ancelotti and Modric putting him in the right place. He would have Carrick and Mainoo here.
12.) 27 Jul 2026 11:41:19
All being said, I still think the club covets Baleba most, and they're waiting on Brighton to move his asking price into a more acceptable range.
13.) 28 Jul 2026 20:58:08
I'd agree with them. He would be the one I'd like to see sign.
10 Aug 2025 16:32:18
Currently in Turkey, and on their sports channel they’ve just reported Besiktas will look at Sancho as an alternative to Lauriente? Plays in France I think.
Not sure if any of that has been spoken about in England yet and not sure if Sancho would be interested but be good if we can move him on ASAP.
1.) 10 Aug 2025 20:22:53
What's he worth let's be honest!?, no commitment, no pride, no drive and turns it on now and again!, a spoiled egotistical brat!, be embarrassed if my child showed as little interest from such a privileged position, massive queues for his signature not!, needs grow a pair!, I'd take a tenner for him and put it down to a very bad purchase to be honest.
2.) 10 Aug 2025 21:33:28
Got no self respect. doesn't seem to love the game. downhill for him now probably be in America in 3 years.
3.) 10 Aug 2025 21:39:52
I have the feeling the Sancho situation will run towards the end of August and he will end up back at Dortmund. Whether as full sale or one more loan!
30 May 2025 08:32:17
Morning. Although it feels a bit disappointing that Delap has chosen Chelsea. Being one to try and look at the glass being half full when it comes to the football side, I think this season we will finally be getting players who WANT to play for United. This is something I don’t think we’ve had since SAF left bar a few individuals. Cunha is a great example of this, it was only United and I love that. We need players who want to represent the club if we are going to move forward.
With Delap gone, Arsenal appearing to be in for Sesko I do wonder whether Gyokeres is an option although you’d think he’d end up at a Champions League side. I wonder if Ramos from PSG is an option and for some reason, I feel like an outside option is Kane. He’s won his title but I’ve read his family aren’t happy in Germany. The idea of coming back and beating Shearer’s record must be tempting for him. I’m not sure this is a move we should rule out.
1.) 30 May 2025 10:04:00
I am with you Ports as a bit of an optimist when it comes to or club (wrongly recently) . Delap for me would have been great if we had an existing striker numner 1 in and we wanted to split the playing time, allow to challenge and bring in as a number 2.
He felt a bit like Rooney when we brought him in. but we had Berbatov/ Tevez so they could give him time to bed in (not that he needed much)
At the minute we need a ready made number 1, does not need to be a huge name even though I would love an Osihmen/ Gyorkeres. If not them then a player who has been number 1 striker somewhere and scored.
Chelsea - Delap in and looks like they want another which could be Gyorkeres/ Ekitike
Arsenal - Seems split on manager/ sporting director but expect one of Gyorkeres/ Sesko
Newcastle - sorted with Isak
Liverpool - dark horses to get one of the big options but could look at Ekitike
We could be left on the outside looking at the best of the rest. reality of where we are but think with no Europe we can improve our position as a whole team with improvements in all 3 of the attacking positions.
2.) 30 May 2025 10:42:27
I really hope we can bring in a very good if not great striker who can instil a bit of that fear factor again, a player who's a handful and the opposition CBs dread facing. Doesn't feel like we've had that for a long time.
If Arsenal do get Sesko then maybe the Gyokeres move still has some legs in it. It wouldn't be the first time we'd managed to sign a very good player without the lure of European football to offer (despite what went on to follow, Pogba signed in an 'off' season) . Selling the dream of starting this new chapter and aiming for the Europa spots (I assume) won't appeal to the elite players but we're not in for those, the ones a rung below might be up for the challenge though?
3.) 30 May 2025 12:40:38
Getting a top class striker will be difficult in this market of limited options and with so much competition for them. Especially from teams that can offer European football and realistic chances of winning major silverware.
We will almost certainly end up shopping for a striker who is either unproven or that next bracket down from elite.
I still maintain that I'd be doing everything we can to get Jonathan David across the line. He might be in that next bracket down from elite, but he is miles ahead of our current options and for free it is surely a no brainer. Then we can afford to maybe look for a young talented striker with potential who can rotate around with David.
I'd also be pushing really hard for Mbeumo to join alongside Cunha to make sure we've added more goals across the front three so we are less reliant on the strikers to get all the goals.
4.) 30 May 2025 15:55:51
I have to say I'm not 1 but Sissons in not getting delap.
Obviously he has good potential but too far from the finished article to lead the line imo at united given where we are.
He might be the next shearer but might also be the next rasmus.
5.) 30 May 2025 17:04:58
I'm not bothered about a player choosing not to come here.
I'm more bothered about or ability to pick the right player. Then it's down to the player to want to come here. Delap wanted to go elsewhere, I'm okay with that.
I'm hoping mbeumo joins, a really good premiership player coming into the prime of his career.
6.) 30 May 2025 17:41:12
#Brad76
Did I misunderstand your comment, or you said we bought Rooney while already having Berbatov and Tevez?
7.) 30 May 2025 18:26:44
Would anyone go for Wissa? Knows the league, had a great season, if we go for Mbeumo too, they already form a great partnership, and it would not block potential younger strikers.
8.) 30 May 2025 18:33:24
Delap choosing Chelsea is a blessing in disguise. The board will be forced to reach a little deeper into their pockets for a Gyokores / Osimhen-style player. I expect it will mean the end of Bruno, although if the plan was to play him in a deeper position next season, that might not be such a bad thing. The £150m he’ll bring in will cover the Cunha fee, a striker, and a new keeper.
{Ed077's Note - I was never a big fan of the whole Delap idea so I'm happy he's going to Chelsea instead
9.) 30 May 2025 23:03:06
With you Ed. We need to buy goals now. Delap doesn’t guarantee this.
10.) 31 May 2025 08:30:15
Brad. I'm not sure you have your signings in the right order??.
11.) 31 May 2025 08:31:11
Redseven 150m no chance.
12.) 31 May 2025 11:22:32
Ken - He’s worth two Dhurans. He’s their statement signing. Maybe they won’t go all the way to £150m, but I expect they’ll go close if we hold our nerve. Worst case scenario Bruno stays.
13.) 02 Jun 2025 03:33:01
I won't comment on the striker options other than to say you should ignore the "potential" and go for players who want to to play for you and have the right character. Get that sorted first. Pretty much what Klopp did when he first started at LFC. People laughed when he signed Milner but he paid it back in spades just in the way he changed the dressing room culture.
Mind you I think you missed the boat by not going for Kelleher as GK. Already an upgrade on Onana (not that that would be hard) and wouldve been cheap (and home grown) . He is only going to get better imho and you prob wouldve had that position sorted for the next 6 years or at least until you had the money to afford an elite GK.
09 Aug 2024 16:59:26
Currently in Turkey and talk of United speaking with Fenerbache for Ferdi kadioglu.
1.) 09 Aug 2024 19:03:13
Are you getting the hair or teeth done ports?
2.) 09 Aug 2024 19:30:57
Gone for the Jurgen Klopp smile option!
3.) 09 Aug 2024 19:59:09
I didn't know Turkey did hair as well as teeth.
4.) 10 Aug 2024 00:40:57
Oak bark, they do all plastic surgery too. Can get yourself a new hairline and the missus a BBL at the same time ?.
5.) 10 Aug 2024 08:55:15
Just make sure you have a good Turkish translator with you when you go to the surgery, tick the wrong box and you'll get yourself a pair of double D's instead of a new fringe or a set of pearly whites ??.
29 Jul 2024 09:26:43
Ed, sounds like PSG are keen on Sancho. Just out of interest, would it be better for both clubs to do the Sancho and Ugarte transfers as separate deals or, if possible tie them both into 1 deal? I know it’s a lot more complicated but for me, the simplistic answer for them would be that Sancho is valued at £50M, they want £70M for Ugarte so £20M plus Sancho and get deal done (I’m just using numbers from reports) . Or for financial purposes would both deals need to be done separately. I guess there is an agent fee that may complicate it further?!
{Ed002's Note - PSG are not going to pay £50M for Sancho. Don't worry about the structure of any transfer as they are recorded separately on the TMS.}
1.) 29 Jul 2024 10:05:54
There certainly sounds like a deal can be done for both players. I'd imagine a comprise on both sides will be required.
2.) 29 Jul 2024 13:10:13
Ignoring money I definitely feel like there will be some movement with incoming/ outgoing shortly.
Ugarte feels like it is waiting for the Neves deal to progress and if an agreeable price can be met for both Ugarte and Sancho it is possible the deals happen at the same time with us topping up with some cash.
Mazraoui from Bayern feels similar if we can agree a deal with West Ham for AWB then that deal could go through smoothly.
Hopefully we are continuing discussions for De Ligt, as we saw from the Arsenal game we need to make sure we are covered and a main 3 of De Ligt, Yoro and Martines would give us this.
3.) 29 Jul 2024 14:27:58
PSG aren’t paying much more than that for Neves. Would rather we just went for him instead.
4.) 29 Jul 2024 16:34:02
Redseven,
He’s a similar player to Mainoo though and we need a Casemiro replacement, perhaps buying players we need rather than fancy names is the way to go?
5.) 29 Jul 2024 16:39:25
Rarely does a club actively looking to sell one of their players ever get the asking price.
If we are trying to sell Sancho for 40m, we'll be lucky to get 35m.
Likewise, PSG might want 70m, but they will be lucky to get 55m.
No one will match, let alone pay more for the player than what they paid last summer. Especially given that PSG are looking for a sale.
We are just seeing the media posturing that takes place in the build up to most transfers.
6.) 29 Jul 2024 20:29:18
Gds2. I've seen a lot of talk about him but never really seen him play. I can say the same about ugarte to be honest.
But the psg deal for neves seems all but done so as you say a player of ugarte's profile is more akin to what we need to compliment the likes of mainoo Bruno and mount.
Midfield looks very short on depth if any of cas ericksen or mctom were to depart without another coming in alongside ugarte. Interesting to see if we can get 2 in.
Ports's banter posts with other poster's replies to Ports's banter posts
03 Aug 2026 08:12:00
I get why some fans are frustrated with the lack of movement, but I think we also need to consider that the club's thinking may have changed based on what they've seen in pre-season.
At the start of the summer, the media had us all convinced we were signing three central midfielders. Santos and Tielemans came in pretty quickly, and since then it's gone quiet. Everyone's assuming we've stalled, but what if the plan has simply evolved?
Whether you rate him or not, Mount has been used in a deeper midfield role throughout pre-season and, credit where it's due, he's looked good there. If Amorim and his staff believe that's a genuine option, then suddenly the need for a third specialist CM isn't as obvious.
You'd then have Santos, Tielemans, Mainoo and Mount competing for the two deeper midfield positions. Santos has impressed, Tielemans is proven Premier League quality, Mainoo is expected to kick on again this season, and Mount gives you another option if his transition continues.
Then look at the No.10 role. Bruno can't play every game, and if the club believe Lacey is ready for first-team involvement, you've potentially got your cover there without spending another £50m on someone who blocks one of the academy's brightest talents.
Pre-season isn't just about getting minutes into players. It's also about managers finding answers within their own squad. Mount looking comfortable deeper and Lacey looking capable further forward could easily have changed the recruitment priorities.
I'm not saying we definitely won't sign another midfielder, but perhaps we're all still judging the window based on what journalists were reporting six weeks ago rather than what Carrick has actually learned from working with the squad.
Sometimes the biggest "new signings" aren't signings at all, they're players who the manager suddenly sees in a different role. If that's happened with Mount, and Lacey is trusted to cover Bruno, it makes perfect sense why the club may now feel that Santos, Tielemans, Mainoo and Mount are enough in central midfield, allowing them to focus the remaining budget elsewhere.
1.) 03 Aug 2026 08:42:53
I like all that Ports, but Mount's fitness record is poor, so his availability is questionable. If he could stay for, then your assessment is sound, but it's a big if.
I like Lacey.
He can also play out wide, and Cunha can play 10. We have lots of options for forward players, although we still lack a killer goalscorer. We may see Sesko kick on, we may not.
2.) 03 Aug 2026 09:08:14
I would not put much weight into pre season performances, they are fitness exercises against teams at different stages of their pre season.
If the club genuinely think Mount is an option for cm, fair enough, but weve had 3 seasons of evidence that he isnt. Still remember people believing he could play cm next to Casemiro under Eth, and that was a catastrophic failure.
3.) 03 Aug 2026 09:09:35
Maybe Amorim still being involved is what has people worried. ?
4.) 03 Aug 2026 09:32:52
It's got that bad with our manager turnover, fans don't even know who is in charge any more.
5.) 03 Aug 2026 09:48:46
Getting 2 x CMs in already this window has alleviated the pressure on getting a 3rd. I think, if we do get one more in, it will be the right one, I'm sure the transfer dept are calm at the moment.
What I think is much more of a priority is the LB situation.
However, with the Rashford situation not being cleared up, it's creating a domino effect where he stays and Dorgu is a LB choice.
For me, it's not the worst scenario.
If that does stay the same, I would like us to get another CM and forward option in then.
I think it's going to be a busy last few weeks for the squad.
I would treat Mount and Lacey as bonuses if they can contribute. I wouldn't be hanging my hat on either of them. We still need a few more additions of quality to compete on all 4 fronts.
6.) 03 Aug 2026 10:13:48
Amorim ?? What a wally. ?♂️
7.) 03 Aug 2026 10:31:20
I just think Moynt's fitness is such a concern, you cannot rely on him being one of the four. I like him as a player, and, by all accounts, seems to be a good member of the squad, but he just cannot stay fit for extended periods. He would need to do that for a full season to change that view.
I also think that we would lack a more physically dominating player. I think Kone could be a good answer, but we might be waiting for one if the Madrid players. Not sure that will be resolved any time soon. Could be another case of rumours all summer and then Noone is signed.
8.) 03 Aug 2026 11:08:23
Mount reminds me of Owen Hargreaves, a really good player who we all want fit because of what they offer the team, but in reality is holding us back from moving on.
9.) 03 Aug 2026 11:37:04
Mount 'starring' against Atletico (and getting MOM in many match reports) will suit United down to the ground, as it's proof we won't need a third midfielder signing. Mbuemo grabbing a few at CF won't speed up the chase for a centre forward either. Maybe LB is the only addition we can expect before the window closes...
10.) 03 Aug 2026 13:54:50
You never rely on anything pre season, it's a warm up. If the club are basing signings on pre season, that would be amateur.
We still need what we needed at the start of the window.
Without those three key players, we are going to struggle to make top 5. With the right three, we have a good chance of challenging the top 3 positions. It would be delusional to think otherwise.
11.) 03 Aug 2026 14:01:02
That's a fair assessment, Spenno.
I watched the game as well, and Mount was brilliant. He deserved the MOTM award. My only worry is whether he can stay fit long enough to put together a decent run of games.
Shea Lacey impressed me too. He's clearly got bags of talent, but because of his size he'll probably get bullied physically at times until he fills out.
We've hardly spent anything this window when you take into account the wages we've freed up and the money we've brought in from player sales. I'm still hopeful we'll get a CB who can also cover RB, plus another CM before the window shuts.
12.) 03 Aug 2026 14:43:53
You make a very good point, Ports.
Plans can evolve.
Mount's injury record would be a concern, and as Red Man says, pre season is a different pace.
There is a need for a 5th cm on that basis alone.
A forward depends on Rashford. If he won't leave, we simply don't have space for another top tier signing or wage, imo.
LB Hall would be a great option at the right price. What that is, I've no idea.
I like Robinson at Fulham too.
Gore, Amass, Vietk, Collyer and Bayindir all need new homes. Obi and a couple of others' loan deals need to be sorted.
1st team exits look to be down to Zirkzee and Rashford at the moment.
13.) 03 Aug 2026 17:42:35
Red Man, nobody is saying the club is basing transfers solely on pre-season. But, it's entirely logical that performances in training and friendlies influence whether they sign three midfielders or two, or whether someone like Lacey earns a squad role.
That's called evaluating your squad, not being amateur.
The only delusional thing is insisting nothing can change over six weeks while claiming to know exactly where we'll finish in May.
14.) 03 Aug 2026 18:18:04
Ports,
Yes, young players at 18,19 can take a step up. A player like Lacey can take a step up and put himself in contention. Heaven can show his strength has improved. However, we knew what our squad of the more mature players was at the end of the season. We knew, and the club should know, what is there.
Unless a Ronaldo jumps out, the key signing requirements are not going to change based on preseason friendlies.
The ones buffing up Mount as meaning we don't need a class CM are only helping the Glazers trying to keep expenditure down.
30 Jul 2026 14:01:57
Sky reporting that Madrid are expected to make a bid for Rodri very soon. I wonder if United have been waiting for this to happen to then bid for Tchouameni. Would be a shame if he became available but United had gone elsewhere. I also read that although the boy has signed a contract, this was done prior to them expecting to go in for Rodri so he could still be available.
Think Rodri moving certainly starts a merry-go-round of CM's.
1.) 30 Jul 2026 16:14:17
I think that's exactly what's happening. The club will likely have a pipeline of deals teed up, which are contingent on certain outcomes.
If Rral buy Rodri, Camevibga for sure if surplus to requirements, and maybe Tchouameni. All being said, let's not waste all summer on this. Just bring in Baleba.
2.) 30 Jul 2026 16:34:26
If Rodri comes in along with Diomande (not sure they will stop there), then they will definitely be needing to sell. Whether that is Tchouameni or another is anyone's guess.
It would be no surprise if we are having conversations with everything dependent on the Rodri deal, and I think he would be a brilliant move at anywhere around the £65/70m mark.
Should it happen, it would also mean the logic at the start of the window of 3 midfielders with one in each of the £30/50/80m bracket!!
Onto Lewis Hall after that, especially with Eddie Howe leaving and looking like a real reboot in Newcastle.
3.) 30 Jul 2026 17:06:51
Rashford is causing a bottleneck also. If we could move him on, it would help considerably.
4.) 30 Jul 2026 20:51:40
I can't see any destination for Rashford... maybe big spending Spurs, but would we sell to them? Other than that, there's nowhere... unless Barca do what I said they would and offer a loan in the last week of the window!! Wouldn't surprise me.
5.) 30 Jul 2026 21:41:26
I don't expect Tchouameni to be going anywhere.
Also, hasn't he openly said he doesn't want to leave Madrid? Rarely works out buying a player that doesn't really want the move. United have tried that before to no success.
6.) 30 Jul 2026 22:18:34
It seems Utd have options Kone, Nemencha, Warton, others, and I hope Sadiki in addition to Tchoumeni or Camavinga. They'll have an idea on costs for any targets.
I'd think Tchoumeni is first choice and they want to rule that out before moving on with others.
7.) 30 Jul 2026 22:55:45
Maybe we could convince Newcastle to take Rashford, but he wouldn't want to go to that sinking ship. He says he will only go to a UCL team, or stay at Utd. Nice of us to let him do whatever he likes. He arranged a cut price deal for himself to Barca, and they still preferred to spend double on Gordon.
If Rash causes issues this season, I would payout his contract and release him. Only takes one bad apple to spoil the barrel. If he comes back and is hungry and plays like a man possessed when he gets his chance, then we don't need a backup striker or left winger.
Big decision for Carrick. Does he trust him.
8.) 31 Jul 2026 06:41:09
I'm pretty convinced he will leave. Whatever is being said, I don't see a way back for him. I think plenty of teams will move for him, and I would be making it clear to him that he isn't first choice at United.
9.) 31 Jul 2026 11:42:56
Fallguy, I get that sentiment, and I think it's great that United want players who want to sign for United. With this situation, he may prefer to stay at Real, but if they are saying their plans lie elsewhere, as long as he wants to sign for us when it's clear his future isn't at Real Madrid, that's ok imo.
If he's told his future isn't at Madrid and he says he wants to sign for City, PSG or whoever, then I agree we shouldn't pursue him. We just need to see what Madrid say when/if they sign Rodri.
10.) 31 Jul 2026 12:22:59
Think we've got more chance of signing Charlton than Tchouameni. He is an elite midfielder, one of the best in the world in his position. I'd say we only have one player even close to being one of those (Bruno).
He would be brilliant, but why would he, and why would we be his automatic destination if Real wanted to sell him? I don't see it, but I'd absolutely love to be wrong.
02 Jul 2026 19:52:12
Who’s a bigger risk signing? Fernandez for £85M. Got relegated 2 seasons running and not selected for national side but is regarded as a player with potential. Or Baleba for let’s say £85M too. Proven in the Premier League but off the back of a poor season?
Personally, I think Baleba’s profile is what we need, athletic, physical. Would compliment Mainoo perfectly IMO.
1.) 02 Jul 2026 21:33:57
Last summer, I really wanted Baleba, Fernandez wasn't really that impressive. Baleba had a poor year. Fernandez was good, not great, certainly not at the level of Baleba in 24/25. Both are young.
I rather fancy Baleba had his head turned by United, then struggled to deal with the move falling through.
However, if last year was simply an off year, and Baleba returns to the level of 24/25 and is closer to 50 mill than 85, then I certainly won't be disappointed that we made that move.
Whilst, like everyone, I have preferences and opinions on players, I am not too bothered who we buy or if we get cheaper options or miss out on XYZ if the guys actually making the decisions get it right.
I am certainly not overly bothered by the players we have not got so far. Just looking forward to seeing who we do get and how they pan out.
{Ed001's Note - Baleba had an injury and never got a proper pre-season, which didn't help him.}
2.) 02 Jul 2026 22:19:51
Amen to that, Oakbark.
3.) 03 Jul 2026 00:55:42
I think we wanted Fernandes as a preference. No, I don't know. But it seems like he was the option chosen after Anderson. Now they are pivoting. Maybe it was Fernandes and baseball, I guess we will never know.
Salah was something like a 5th option for Liverpool when they bought him (if I remember right), and that turned out okay.
Just would prefer us to avoid using the press to say someone is top priority, then to lose out to a rival... which is what we did with Anderson.
Long window yet to go.
4.) 03 Jul 2026 07:19:48
I agree, Oakbark. The reason I asked is because I'm curious what people are actually more concerned about. Is it the player's profile itself, or is not paying the £85M price tag what's shaping people's opinions?
5.) 03 Jul 2026 09:28:04
Ports, we're not in a stable enough position to make a gamble on potential. Mateus Fernandes, I think, has excellent potential, but we need someone who can come in now. I think the board are looking at it like last summer - we need two "guarantees", and are happy to go for a third to speculate on.
Fernandes was to be this summer's Sesko, I think. But they didn't value that potential above 70M, so fair enough.
We're doing fine. We have Ederson in. People seem to completely ignore that, and he's a very good player.
6.) 03 Jul 2026 11:14:33
Is he a very good player... We have no idea how that will translate to the EPL and TBF. It's not exactly set the world alight. There was no queue for him either...
Hopefully he sets the world alight at OT.
7.) 03 Jul 2026 14:05:21
Yeah EPL is like a different sport.
But his style is high energy and very competitive, so I'm hoping he can make the transition better than others have done.
He has been good in Italy, like you say, we have to hope he can settle and adapt quickly.
I'm very hopeful that he will.
Could be a dark horse. Let's hope not another Fred.
8.) 03 Jul 2026 15:00:02
Fred is a great comparison for him, Ken. His technique is better, but that all-action style and slight lack of positional awareness is there. But a lot was asked of him in the Atalanta midfield, and at times he excelled.
No doubt he dropped off last year (on the few games I saw at least), but that was true of them as a whole, so I'm hoping he shows that was a blip.
9.) 03 Jul 2026 15:22:29
Atalanta have struggled, and they had a style of play change since Gasperini moved on. They all struggled last season.
30 Jun 2026 18:03:01
A player I like the look of is Antonio Nusa of Norway. Looking forward to seeing him in action today. Could be a good option for the LW position if we’re still looking at that position.
1.) 30 Jun 2026 20:39:43
Great shout that ports after his performance tonkgjt.
2.) 30 Jun 2026 18:40:25
Ports is a witch!!!
04 Jun 2026 18:52:00
Question really aimed at the people who are not convinced by Carrick but for all to answer.
What does Michael Carrick need to do to fully win you over as manager? And if United were to win the league playing a pragmatic, results-first style similar to Arsenal's title-winning approach, would you be satisfied with that, or is the style of football more important than the success? I'm just wondering what the line is for whether he is viewed as the correct decision for fans?
1.) 04 Jun 2026 19:14:59
Ports, imo, he has to keep doing what he has been doing. Winning football matches and improving players.
He is on a very steep learning curve. He has done as well as he possibly could have up to now, imo. With the players he has had at his disposal.
He has earned his opportunity.
I honestly think it could go either way for him. He will have an improved squad to work with.
He has had the media behind him so far; how he will cope with the bumps in the road ahead is unknown.
I think we will know after a dozen games next season in the league what our style of play is and will be.
We were counter attacking a lot, but it can be argued that suited the players we had.
With better midfielders available, that will change, I'm sure.
We were nothing like Arsenal, and we played some good stuff in games at times.
I'm not sitting on the fence; I'm 100% behind him and 100% hopeful. I'm just not overconfident.
He has lots to prove, and will have many questions to answer as games go by. All I do know is that he has answered every question put to him so far.
I like to go on what we do know and not what we don't; that's always a good place to start. We do know nobody won more points than United over the last 16 games. I think only 2 teams scored more goals. There is not much to complain about there.
Iraola will be who he will be judged against for many, as some believe he might have been available to United.
I'm looking forward to seeing how the season unfolds. I think it will be more open than ever.
2.) 04 Jun 2026 19:16:29
I want to see a clear and more dominant style of play. I want to see how he reacts in difficult situations, because that's the criteria sometimes. Until now, he has not had a crisis, and all was good. That, and results, need to continue being good. I think the style of play is more important than results, because if you play well, with clear patterns, results will follow anyway.
On the other hand, even if results are good, without playing good football, the form will fade sometime.
I don't think we can make an Arsenal anyway, we don't have the structure or the base. We don't have Rice, Maggalaes or Saliba.
3.) 04 Jun 2026 20:27:30
He has to show some evidence that his management and coaching results in positive impacts on the pitch.
My main issue is that our best football, under Carrick, was played during his first month in charge. Yes, we must give him credit for picking the right players and allowing them play with freedom. He did everything right to get the squad back to playing their best post-Amorim.
However, the true test of a manager's worth is measured by longer term improvements. Carrick hasn't shown this.
As the season progressed, the level of performances didn't really improve, even if the results were, broadly, good.
Particularly with attacking play, there wasn't much evidence of Carrick's impact. It often felt like the primary strategy was to give the ball to Bruno and hope that he creates something. In games when this wasn't working (Leeds and Sunderland, for example), there didn't appear to be any plan B, and, in general, Carrick seems slow to react when the opposition is controlling things.
4.) 04 Jun 2026 23:29:18
I think who he signs will be the biggest factor in determining how he does. If he gets a centre back, another midfielder and a centre forward, all of his choice and of high quality, he has a good chance to succeed.
He was a top player and I believe he wants to play attacking, flowing football, replicating the Fergie years.
He knows the supporters don't want boring football. I will forgive his relative lack of managerial experience and some bad results if I can see a clear plan which looks like it will bring long term results. We have to back him and give him the confidence to succeed.
5.) 05 Jun 2026 07:02:34
1. Clear style that is modern in approach, that brings good, winning, controlling, attacking, attractive football. Counter attack is not good enough. 2. Must demonstrate greater tactical sense, more dominant approach. Better use of width. Better control of midfield.
3. Better integration of youth. His handling of Heaven was very poor last year. Even in the last couple of games, he didn't really give any chances to youth.
4. Improved in-game management. His substitutions were not well timed and lacked verve at times. He seemed indecisive to change things tactically at times.
5. Finish no lower than third, must challenge the top two properly.
6. Win something.
Maybe I can then concede he should get a second season. I hope he does all the above because, whilst I feel he was the wrong choice, I want him to succeed, because the club succeeds.
6.) 05 Jun 2026 07:35:42
Win s***.
7.) 05 Jun 2026 08:12:59
1. Performances that match the results we have had - there has been too much luck for me so far.
2. Evidence of a plan B - in the games where we stuttered, Carrick was too slow and lacked invention to change the game.
8.) 05 Jun 2026 08:19:06
Wow, Red Man, I take that as you saying you've decided that Carrick shouldn't have the job and will not be changing that view.
I'd argue maybe only Pep achieved those 6 things last season, and even then there's a question mark over his use of youth players. Arteta (who I can't stand) won the league and only ticks a couple of those things off the list.
For what it's worth, I think we have to accept that there will be bumps in the road.
Qualifying for the Champions League again, good cup runs, and actually looking like a team that understands what Manchester United is actually about will be enough for me next season. Ideally, winning something is the aim, but realistically there are only 4 competitions and I think we all agree that there are teams in a much better condition than we are at the moment.
9.) 05 Jun 2026 10:09:42
Having a good start is crucial, not only for team confidence, but also for his own. If not, then the snipers will start shooting, the back stabbers will be out, ie the press/media are in waiting to slaughter him.
Results are the main factor, style will come with confidence, and to be up and ready is a must.
For him to have a chance, then this transfer window is huge. We need a much deeper squad, we need players stepping up, and if not in the team, then knocking and really pushing to be in the team.
If we have that good start and there becomes a buzz around how we do, then it could be a very good season for Carrick and the fans. A poor, slow start and we maybe start talking about what could and should have been, and the 'I told you so' gang will be in full swing.
10.) 05 Jun 2026 10:32:37
I think we need to see a team that plays well. We've seen it in patches, but we've also seen some very poor performances, despite the good results. Carrick apparently wants to play fast attacking football, which would be good to see.
He keeps finding ways to win, which is always useful. I'm hoping he uses more players next season as the squad is strengthened, and we have more games to manage.
I'd also like to see a bit more oomph from Carrick. I welcome the calmness and lack of drama, but he needs to get passionate sometimes.
We need to solidify what we achieved this year, whilst going further in the cup competitions, and we need to not lose to Grimsby.
11.) 05 Jun 2026 10:39:48
AA80,
What has changed, apart from his appointment, since I said clearly that I didn't believe Carrick had the qualifications to be United manager?
The OP question was, what would convince me, and I set that out. This is Manchester United. Why would I say 5th is ok? That answer would only be if I was previously comfortable with an ex player being put in charge because he was an ex player.
He has to show he is of the calibre to be the man, for example people said 2nd wasn't good enough for Jose. Carrick has it all to prove, hope he does but suspect it will be difficult given his experience. We shall see.
12.) 05 Jun 2026 12:59:19
All he has to do is get them playing like they did against the Bertie's at home. Simple.
13.) 05 Jun 2026 15:18:36
I've been very critical of Arsenal this season when it comes to the way they play, but ultimately, they won the league and made it to the Champions League final, in which they narrowly missed out on the trophy. I'm going to go ahead and assume that most of their fans are happy.
In an ideal world, we'd win trophies playing attractive football, but if we win a few playing Arsenal-style anti-football, I'm sure most of us (including myself) wouldn't be complaining, assuming the plan was to transition into a less pragmatic style over the next few windows.
The issue comes if we play terrible football and still win nothing.
14.) 05 Jun 2026 17:02:58
Win the treble.
15.) 05 Jun 2026 18:01:10
Redman: "Shoot cannon balls from his arse and lasers from his eye balls. Maybe then I will consider giving him a second season."
Tough man to please.
16.) 06 Jun 2026 00:31:07
Why did you not have any of that criteria for Amorim, Redman?
17.) 06 Jun 2026 07:23:42
Ken,
Amorim already had a CV that showed he could do it.
18.) 06 Jun 2026 08:46:54
In Portugal.
Translated well.
19.) 06 Jun 2026 09:08:38
Red Man, this is the reason I asked the question. Some of your points are developmental objectives and some are achievement objectives. You're effectively saying, "Develop the team for the future while simultaneously delivering elite present-day results." This is a pretty tough expectation.
Attractive, controlling, attacking football vs "Win something" and "Finish no lower than third." If Carrick finishes third and wins a cup through a more pragmatic approach, would that count as success? Your criteria suggest no. If he plays excellent football but finishes fourth, that also seems to fail.
"Better integration of youth" vs. "Finish no lower than third." The safest route to a top-three finish is normally relying on experienced players. You're essentially asking for, More youth minutes.
More attacking football. Better results than last season. Those can coexist, but each objective makes the others harder.
So my question is this, Red Man, Choice 1 - Carrick wins the League and FA Cup playing Maguire and Martinez all season and setting up to have less possession than the opposition or Choice 2, we set up with Heaven and Yoro, we dominate possession and are enjoyable to watch and finish 4th but have no cup. Which are you chosen for the first season that would make you accept a 2nd season for Carrick? Because, personally, I'm not sure all your criteria can be achieved in his first season. I appreciate and agree a bit with substitutions and at times in game management could be improved, but then those two areas will also determine the above outcomes.
20.) 06 Jun 2026 09:11:50
Also, you say better integration of youth. Mainoo didn't start a game in the league this season until Carrick became manager, so your criticism of that area is slightly misjudged.
21.) 06 Jun 2026 09:30:54
Ports,
Mainoo is hardly "youth", is he?
22.) 06 Jun 2026 09:42:52
Ports
Let's see what happens. I am there to be convinced, but failing at Championship Boro means he has an awful lot to prove. There will be objectives set for him by Berrada and co, against which he will be assessed. If you understand management, then you will know they will not, nor should they be easy. Those were my thoughts above & let's see how he gets on. I hope he succeeds in all, but suspect he won't. I don't get to make the judgement on his continuation, but I have my expectations of him and the club.
Not long ago, people were on here saying getting second wasn't good enough. Now it looks like 4th would be ok. The reason can only be because of who Carrick is, the 'one of our own' nonsense. That's setting him up to be satisfactory in failure. Like I said, that is how I feel and see how he performs. I want us to win everything, but Carrick has no history. He has been appointed, so there is nothing much to say other than wait and see.
23.) 06 Jun 2026 11:21:22
If you understand management, then you'll also know objectives need to be realistic and achievable, based off your start point, the resources you have, and a set timeframe.
24.) 06 Jun 2026 13:43:58
Ports,
Held senior management positions, and you have to be naive if you think all objectives are realistic or sometimes even achievable. Timeframe is relevant, I agree. But, whilst I am not setting Carrick's, is it not true the club have the clear objective to win the league in 2028? In order to do that, Carrick has to get us to the challenger point at the end of this next season, with a view to win it the season after.
No point in giving soft objectives in that case, is there?
25.) 06 Jun 2026 15:07:14
But that's the point, Red Man. We may win the league next season or the following. But will we win it the way you, and, to be fair, the majority of fans, want to win it, or will we win it the "Arsenal" way. But that way doesn't satisfy your point 1.
For what it's worth, everything you've said, I would love to happen, as I am sure the majority of fans would, but there has to be a realistic approach to what can and can't be achieved here in the short term.
Which is why I asked the question originally about what Carrick needs to do to convince people he's the right guy. Maybe I should have followed that up with to meet the club's objective of winning the league in 2028.
28 Jul 2026 16:49:26
I've read he's also stalling on not signing an extension. I imagine there's a bit of posturing from all parties going on. I expect, being 19, he wants assurances of 1st team involvement at some point and won't sign until he gets it, and the club won't guarantee that and making noise they're happy to sell if he doesn't sign.
24 Jul 2026 16:57:11
From an ability perspective, I think Mount gets some unfair criticism. From an availability perspective, it's definitely been a frustrating transfer.
23 Jul 2026 17:55:47
IWOTB, don't worry, there is so much flying about, who knows what's happening at the moment. ?
23 Jul 2026 15:27:13
We have signed Eze and Cassim.
23 Jul 2026 09:35:46
What's even more impressive with these signings is that we are signing them from our main rivals, which for me speaks volumes about these players and where they see as best for their future.
On top of this, we are signing Tottenham's top talent as well.
I expect some fans will put a negative spin on these players' reasons for coming, but I think it's exciting and a good sign for the club.
07 Aug 2026 19:25:08
Who on this list were they behind?
07 Aug 2026 18:42:32
I agree, Ken (despite what United Addict says, sometimes you have a good day and make a good post. ?)
Every summer, fans convince themselves that transfers should be wrapped up by early August, yet history tells us otherwise, and get caught up in the rumours on Twitter and from certain "journalists".
Fans forget that football isn't Championship Manager or FIFA, where you click "Make Offer", the other club accepts instantly, and the player signs the next day. Every deal involves multiple moving parts: negotiations between two clubs, agreeing a transfer fee and payment structure, agent commissions, player wages, contract length, bonuses, image rights, medicals, work permits where required, and often the selling club needing to line up a replacement before they'll sanction the sale. On top of that, the player themselves has to want to move or have expressed some desire to move. Gordon has been rumoured to move for a while now, Guimaraes wanted to leave in January, apparently, and there have been ongoing rumours that Tonali has wanted a move for a while.
The market is also interconnected. One transfer often triggers another, which then unlocks another. Clubs deliberately wait because prices can change, leverage shifts, and opportunities appear once other teams have completed their own business.
I get that fans naturally want signings as early as possible because it's exciting, but the reality is the majority of business happens later in the window. That's not incompetence; it's simply how the transfer market operates.
Judge the recruitment once the window closes. Discuss and debate individual targets or identifying areas that still need strengthening, that’s fair enough, but acting as though the club has somehow failed with weeks of the window still remaining ignores how virtually every transfer window unfolds.
07 Aug 2026 16:58:46
I wonder if there is an element of the market changing quite dramatically in terms of transfer fees with the signings made by City, Chelsea and Tottenham. I suspect there were targets at fees the club were prepared to go to, but with Fernandez, Tonali, Anderson and Rogers going for hefty fees, that has set the benchmark for other clubs now, and potentially United have had to rethink their approach and their targets.
03 Aug 2026 22:34:26
This is the same SAF that was linked and tried to sign Shearer, Hirst and Le Tissier before signing Cantona and then Kluivert, Batistuta and Salas before signing Yorke.
Red Man, I think you're more bothered about spending Glazers money than actually becoming a successful football team again.
03 Aug 2026 17:44:55
I think Zirkzee is a good player in the wrong league. He has bags of ability, but that ability, imo, is better for a different league to the Premier League.