Manchester United believe they have identified the next Declan Rice, and they may be able to sign him for £25million less than what the Arsenal midfielder was signed for.
Michael Carrick is looking to build on the success of last season that saw United finish in the top three and without much of a sweat. Such a high finish has been a rarity for the Old Trafford club over recent years, but fans are still going to want to see more progress come next season.
Carrick will likely be expected to lead the Red Devils into the title conversation, even if the title itself is likely to be a big ask, and silverware will also be close to the top of the wishlist, given United have not won a trophy since 2023.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick looks on after Premier League win against Nottingham Forest
Following his permanent appointment this summer, Carrick has immediately set about improving his midfield following the departure of Casemiro. Ederson has been brought in on a £34million deal from Atalanta, and the United boss still wants a clear replacement for Casemiro in the holding role.
But given how players like Rodri, Rice and Casemiro have highlighted the importance of having a world-beating holding midfielder over recent years, it has become one of the most expensive positions to invest in.
Not only that, but there are few truly elite options available, with the likes of Rodri, Rice, Vitinha and Moises Caicedo firmly unavailable. Proven world-class players at the position are rarely made available, and so it becomes a case of trying to identify players who have the potential to become what those proven talents are.
Man Utd identify the next Declan Rice
West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes celebrates scoring vs Sunderland
As United search for their Casemiro replacement, they have reportedly identified the ideal option in West Ham star Mateus Fernandes. With the Hammers having been relegated, United feel as though they can get a deal done for Fernandes, who, according to Sky Sports, club chiefs feel was one of the best young players in the Premier League this season.
The report adds that United feel as though Fernandes could be the next Rice, and not just because he is an emerging West Ham talent. Fernandes was clearly West Ham's best player, albeit during a difficult season, and he proved he could handle a Premier League midfield despite being just 21 years of age.
World Cup History Quiz
You scored
↩ Play again
The youngster was in the conversation for the Portugal World Cup squad, but he was beaten out by Mallorca's Samu Costa, who is also being linked with a big move this summer. Costa will be the alternative to Vitinha, who is quickly succeeding Rodri as the best player in the world in his position.
West Ham signed Fernandes from Southampton in 2025 for a fee of £38million, and they are said to be asking for at least £80million to do business this summer. That's £25million less than Arsenal paid for Rice, and transfers have only increased in cost since then. Still, United may feel they can work the Hammers down a little, given the London club are Championship-bound, and indeed the fact Fernandes is likely to demand an exit this summer.
Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick celebrates Premier League win over Liverpool at Old Trafford Related
Man Utd Accelerate Talks to Sign £52m Star After Ederson
Manchester United are making big moves as they look to complete a major midfield rebuild