A new era has started in the Premier League, as once-fabled managers, such as Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp, have left the teams with which they built dynasties. And with their absence, clubs are starting to pounce on the opportunities left.

Mikel Arteta proved this by winning Arsenal's first title in 22 years this season, but more impressively, clubs like Aston Villa, Bournemouth, and Sunderland have surprised the masses by qualifying for Europe.

This proves the increased competitiveness the Premier League has amassed since the traditional 'big six' have wavered. Now, elite clubs like Manchester City and Manchester United are turning to the Premier League's own talent to ensure effectiveness in the league.

The Reds did so with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, two players who have been stellar since their acquisitions last summer, and the board may look to utilise the same model this summer by targeting cost-effective signings further down the table.

Since joining Sheffield United in 2020, Sander Berg has become a staple midfielder in the Premier League, playing 75 games for Fulham and aiding his side to their first World Cup since 1998.

His impact on the Fulham squad has been impressive to say the least. After playing an understudy role to João Palhinha, Berg has emerged as one of Fulham's star players, operating as a mobile defensive midfielder with exceptional ball retention.

In possession, Berg is a key player for Fulham, playing in a similar role to Rodri for Man City. Berg records 48.01 successful passes per 90 on average for Fulham, and records 62.8% succesful long-passes per 90, putting him around the 80th percentile in the Premier League.

Another aspect of Berg's game that is desirable is his prowess in the air; the Norwegian acts as a powerhouse with his heading ability, winning 1.55 aerial duels or 61.7% per 90 on average for Fulham, again putting him in the 80th percentile.

His style of play likens him to the departing Casemiro in some ways, especially in the air. Though Casemiro can be seen more as a 'ball-winning midfielder' screening the defence to relieve defensive burdens from Kobbie Mainoo, United benefit when Casemiro produces intelligent passing plays.

Berg does this effectively and consistently. The 28-year-old is valued at around £30 million, which could entice United to enquire about Berg's availability, to replace Casemiro in rotation with a more defensive-minded midfielder.

 After another impressive campaign for Crystal Palace, in which the Eagles achieved a Conference League triumph, securing Europa League football for next season, Adam Wharton looks to be on the market this summer. This comes after Oliver Glasner left Palace due to a lack of investment.

Valued at around £60 million, clubs will be interested to see what it takes to pry Wharton away from the grips of Palace, especially after his MOTM performance for the London side in the Conference League final.

At 22 years of age, Wharton could be the next long-term midfielder project for United, especially in the wake of Casemiro's departure. Though they are big boots to fill, Wharton offers the intelligence desired in a midfielder, and his passing ability means he can operate at the top-level.

Wharton is above average in the Premier League in succesful dribbles, defensive contributions, tackles, and possessions won in the final third, in which he is the 75th percentile.

But what sets him apart from other Premier League midfielders is his ability to create chances for Palace. The 22-year-old has created 44 chances and 14 big chances this season, putting him seventh in the league's leaderboard.

For a defensive midfielder, this sort of attacking prowess is unheard of. Fans were left disappointed when it was announced that Wharton would not travel with England to the World Cup this summer. This sort of attacking ability would be key in the dying embers of a close tie in the competition.

Brighton have once again impressed this season, finishing eight place and securing Conference League football. Fabian Hürzeler's side has been one of the more enjoyable sides to watch in the Premier League this season.

They're one of the more defensively sound teams in the league. Dutchman Mats Wieffer plays a huge part in that process, being utilised across the midfield and at right-back, where he seems to have found a home.

Since joining Feyenoord in 2024, Wieffer has earned his place in the Dutch national team setup, as his adaptability means the 26-year-old can operate to a high standard in several positions.

A key aspect of Wieffer's game is his defensive ability; the midfielder has transformed into a right-back under Hürzeler, and his statistics have skyrocketed since then. Wieffer has recorded 272 defensive contributions and 60 tackles throughout the season, putting him in the elite percentile in the league.

What's even more impressive is his attacking prowess; the defender is above average in the Premier League in chances created, shots on target, long passes, and expected goals, which from a fullback position is excellent.

The board has raised over £200 million to spend this summer, which is incredibly important considering United are entering the Champions League for the first time since 2023.

That means the recruitment team is likely to spend big money on the world's best; this may include Sandro Tonali, who is linked with a move away from Newcastle, or Elliot Anderson, who will definitely leave Nottingham Forest this summer.

The three players listed are not high on the clubs' shortlists by any means, but they remain viable options to be used as rotation players or to complement another signing.

Considering the three players named aren't in the category of £100 million signing, the board may choose to sign a player of their calibre to perform the role of a Kobbie Mainoo, for example, when he needs a rest. 

The statistics highlighted prove how they can be used in Carrick's tactical setup, and how, as rotation players, their skills are valuable to improve a club's squad depth and therefore progression in the long run.