Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit of highly rated Trabzonspor midfielder Christ Inao Oulai, with the club reigniting contact with the player’s representatives in recent weeks. That’s according to TEAMtalk, who report that Ruben Amorim has personally endorsed the move as United look to future-proof their midfield.
The 19-year-old has become one of Europe’s most talked-about emerging midfielders this season, and United’s renewed push comes at a time when rivals Manchester City remain heavily involved in the race for his signature.
United Make Move as Amorim Identifies Oulai as Long-Term Midfield Solution
Ruben Amorim
TEAMtalk report that Amorim is a major driving force behind United’s interest, viewing Oulai’s athleticism, energy and all-round profile as ideal for his long-term system.
Since joining Trabzonspor from SC Bastia in the summer, Oulai has made an immediate impact in Turkey. The twice-capped Ivorian international has become a regular starter, producing goals, assists and authoritative midfield performances that have sparked comparisons to Yaya Touré.
That early rise has seen his market value increase sharply. While estimates currently place his value around €9m, Trabzonspor are holding firm and are said to want in excess of €40m for a player who is under contract until 2030.
United’s renewed contact suggests groundwork is being laid for a future move, though a January deal appears unlikely given Trabzonspor’s high valuation. A summer transfer is viewed as more realistic.
Man City Still Lead the Race - with Bayern Munich Also Circling
pep guardiola
TEAMtalk’s report again stresses that Manchester City remain the frontrunners for Oulai, having identified him early as a long-term midfield target.
Pep Guardiola’s side reportedly see the 19-year-old as a future partner - or possible successor - to Rodri, impressed by his composure, ball progression and ability to control transitions from deep.
Bayern Munich are also heavily involved as they assess younger midfield profiles to refresh their ageing core. The Bundesliga champions’ interest only increases the competitiveness of the race, with several major European clubs now tracking Oulai’s development closely.
United’s Midfield Plans Taking Shape Ahead of 2026
Manchester United's Casemiro in action against Everton.
For United, the move reflects a wider shift towards younger talent under Amorim and INEOS. With Casemiro in the latter stages of his career and questions remaining over other midfield options, identifying energetic, high-ceiling players has become a priority.
Oulai fits that model perfectly, and United’s proactive approach signals their desire to avoid falling behind rivals should a bidding war emerge later in 2026.
Meanwhile, CaughtOffside add that Crystal Palace full-back Daniel Munoz remains on United’s radar, while separate reports suggest signs are growing that Kobbie Mainoo could leave the club in January, with Napoli among the sides preparing an offer.
For now, though, Oulai remains one of the most intriguing young midfielders in Europe - and United’s renewed push ensures the race for his signature is only just beginning.
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