Manchester United are a side who are in need of added reinforcements in the near future, with the midfield department one of the positions that needs strengthening.
Michael Carrick may have come into the role and won his first game, but it’s crucial that the hierarchy make the right choices at key moments to set the side up for success.
Casemiro has been one of the club’s regular starters in such an area over the last couple of months, but the Brazilian looks set to depart Old Trafford at the end of the campaign.
Manchester United's Casemiro in action
However, his contract is coming to an end at the end of June, which will force the club to look for alternatives in such a department - with additions expected.
Despite the summer window the main time period to improve the squad, the Red Devils hierarchy have already started their pursuit, which has led to numerous names appearing on their radar.
Man Utd storm into race to land £52m talent
As previously mentioned, United have been hunting far and wide for a new midfielder, which has seen them earmark Al Hilal star Ruben Neves as a possible signing.
The Portuguese international has six months left on his contract in Saudi Arabia, which could allow for a bargain deal to take place in the ongoing transfer window.
Ruben Neves
It’s been reported that the 28-year-old could be available for as little as £20m this month, but his current side are unlikely to allow him to depart before the end of his contract.
Neves isn’t the only option currently being considered by the Red Devils hierarchy at present, with Borussia Dortmund star Felix Nmecha another target for the hierarchy.
According to TEAMtalk, Carrick’s men have stormed into the race for his signature and are keen on making a move for the former Manchester City talent this month.
It also states that Tottenham Hotspur are keen on a possible deal to land the 25-year-old, who has already registered two goals and three assists in the Bundesliga this campaign.
Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha leaves the pitch
The report further mentions that his current side are looking to keep hold of the German this month, but could be forced to do business if a fee in the region of £52m is presented.
Why Nmecha would be a better signing than Neves for United
As previously mentioned, the United midfield department is an area of the pitch which desperately needs strengthening, with Manuel Ugarte another player who has struggled to meet expectations.
Manuel-Ugarte-Man-Utd
The Uruguayan international joined in a £50m deal from PSG in the summer of 2024, but it’s quickly become apparent that he’s not at the level required for Premier League success.
He’s massively come under fire for his lack of technical ability at the heart of the side, with a progressive ball-playing option needed to take the side up a gear.
Neves would certainly offer an upgrade on the situation, with the former Wolves star having five years' worth of experience of thriving in such a division.
However, the board should look to prioritise a deal for Nmecha in the days ahead, with the German a younger talent who can progress more under Carrick’s guidance.
Borussia Dortmund's Julian Brandt celebrates scoring their first goal with Felix Nmecha and Daniel Svensson
The 25-year-old is three years younger than the Al Hilal talent, but that hasn’t stopped him from outperforming him - all whilst operating in a much trickier division.
When comparing their stats from the ongoing campaign, the Dortmund star has dominated, showcasing why he would be a better addition before the window closes.
Nmecha, who’s been dubbed “incredible” by Sebastian Kehl, has created more chances per 90 this season, subsequently offering the side the progressive option they have lacked.
Neves may have completed more of the passes he’s attempted, but the German has been more risky with his passes - which has resulted in a much higher assist tally in 2025/26.
How Nmecha & Neves compare in 2025/26
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Assists
Chances created
Dribbles completed
Crosses completed
Duels won
Tackles won
Aerials won
Stats via FotMob
The Dortmund star has also completed more of the dribbles he’s attempted, and completed more crosses this campaign - with both of his figures ranking him in the top 5% of all players in the division.
However, without the ball, he’s been just as impressive, subsequently winning more duels, tackles and aerial battles - which could make him the perfect box-to-box option for Carrick.
£52m for a player of Nmecha’s quality in today’s market would be an excellent piece of business, and one that could massively improve the options at the manager’s disposal.
Neves would also be a solid option for the Red Devils, but given his Saudi Arabian wage, the package for his signature could likely cost just as much for the hierarchy.
felix-nmecha-borussia-dortmund
Felix Nmecha for Borussia Dortmund.
As a result, the club should put all of their focus into a deal for the German, but they will need to act quickly to avoid missing out on his services to Tottenham this month.
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