Manchester United will be looking at several midfielders this summer after Casemiro's departure at the end of the season.
How many midfielders do Manchester United need this summer?
Manchester United have already been linked to several midfielders ahead of the summer transfer window officially opening, with some reports claiming that the club will be looking at signing three midfielders.
The Casemiro replacement is likely to take up the majority of United's budget this summer, as a high-profile player will be needed to take the Brazilian's place, especially given his nine Premier League goals last season.
However, Director of Football Jason Wilcox will also have to search for a Manuel Ugarte replacement and another midfielder, as Kobbie Mainoo is lacking a recognised backup option.
Ederson seems close to joining United already, with personal terms seemingly agreed already. However, United will be hungry to complete more additions before the start of the World Cup.
United's midfield options ahead of the summer transfer window
The summer transfer window for Premier League clubs officially opens on June 15, but the World Cup begins four days earlier.
United will want to have signed at least two of their new midfielders before the summer transfer window opens, so they can be included in some of Michael Carrick's pre-season fixtures.
The Telegraph have reported that United have "extensive work" on several different options ahead of the window officially opening, while Carlos Baleba and Matues Fernandes are being "closely assessed".
There is also "strong admiration" for Aurélien Tchouaméni, but there are several complications over a potential deal for the Real Madrid midfielder.
United cannot wait too long
While a thorough process is a good sign that United have improved their recruitment strategy - something which is needed with Michael Carrick having a say in transfers - it can also make deals take longer.
United cannot afford to be waiting all summer, as they did with Frenkie de Jong, for their favoured options. They have to act quickly.
This could see them forced to pivot away from their favoured options, but if a player is dragging their heels when United are chasing them, are they the right type of player for Michael Carrick's squad?
The 2026 summer transfer window is so important for Manchester United. They cannot afford to get anything wrong, especially the midfield situation.
