Manchester United have compiled a list of midfielders ahead of 2026, with a revamp expected in the position, and now one target is endorsed by Bruno Fernandes.
Ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window, Manchester United are considering plenty of midfielders to overhaul the position that is Ruben Amorim’s weakest right now.
United have already been linked with several midfielders, although it remains to be seen which target will be prioritised. 2026 could see more than one addition in the position, with United potentially seeing multiple exits.
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Big-name targets are in the form of Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba; however, United are also considering others. In particular, there is one midfielder who Bruno Fernandes would love to see arrive at the club.
Now United in Focus can reveal this option.
Ruben Neves points to head in celebration for Al-Hilal.
Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
Manchester United plot move to sign Ruben Neves
Outside of the top priority targets, United are considering players who might be cheaper, but still have all the qualities to shine in a Premier League midfield.
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One of these names is Ruben Neves, formerly of Wolves and now at Al-Hilal, with United in Focus understanding that the Portugal international is of interest to Ineos.
“Ruben Neves remains of interest to Manchester United, they know his situation that he could be available in 2026, that is not certain yet as Al-Hilal try to tie him down to a long-term deal”, Graeme Bailey explains exclusively to United in Focus.
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“United have him on their radar and are being kept informed, but that is true of more than half a dozen midfielders; but he is one that might be an option for January.
“But as it stands, Neves is still considering his options.”
This sounds like it might be a deal United are not going to prioritise unless the midfielder makes it clear he wants a move. However, compared with other targets, Neves is probably more of a ‘Plan B’.
Neves’ contract in Saudi Arabia expires in June, and so it could be a cost-effective solution for the Red Devils.
Bruno Fernandes would be thrilled to see Ruben Neves
United captain Bruno Fernandes holds a lot of sway around the decisions at Old Trafford, and if that extends even slightly to the recruitment, then Neves will surely be a player the club look to sign.
Back in 2021, when Neves was linked with United, The Express reported how Fernandes felt about his compatriot joining him at Old Trafford.
“Bruno Fernandes is obviously very keen for Neves to join and the club are aware of that.”
If Fernandes is still at the club next season, any midfield addition will have to play alongside him, and so Neves is a player United would be sure to succeed.
Neves is also Premier League proven, and so it’s definitely one to watch in the new year.