Manchester United have confirmed Casemiro will depart at the end of the season and they face a £180m battle with Liverpool if they want to sign two top targets
Kieran Horn Digital Sports Journalist and Neil Docking
07:09, 23 Jan 2026
Michael Carrick
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The Michael Carrick era at Manchester United is about to begin(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)
Manchester United need to sign midfield reinforcements following the confirmation Casemiro will be leaving the club - but that's not the only transfer on their agenda.
January has been relatively quiet on the signing front, but there's been plenty of drama in the dugout with Ruben Amorim given the boot and Michael Carrick stepping in on a temporary basis. His debut match in charge delivered a brilliant victory over local rivals Manchester City, with Casemiro producing a standout display.
Nevertheless, United have announced his departure at the season's end when his contract runs out. There was a clause to extend his deal by 12 months, but this hasn't been activated, adding further urgency to the hunt for midfield reinforcements. A Premier League sensation has also caught United's eye. Here's all the latest news from Old Trafford.
Felix Nmecha
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Felix Nmecha has been linked with Manchester United(Image: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
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Crucial discussions arranged
Borussia Dortmund are desperate to tie down midfielder Felix Nmecha to a new contract - despite interest from United and a group of other clubs.
That's the latest update from Sky Sports Germany, who report Dortmund are keen to thrash out fresh terms - despite his existing deal running until the summer of 2028.
Their strategy involves waiting until after the January transfer window concludes before opening negotiations. Nmecha has netted five times and provided three assists across 28 outings in all competitions this season.
The 25-year-old Germany international's importance in their midfield has grown following Pascal Gross' return to Brighton.
£100m valuation placed on target
Liverpool are reportedly interested in Micky van de Ven.
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Liverpool are also reportedly interested in Micky van de Ven.(Image: Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images)
Spurs have put a whopping £100million price tag on star centre-back Micky van de Ven as Liverpool and Manchester United circle.
Reports suggest the Dutch international, 24, is hesitant about penning fresh terms in north London, despite his current agreement running until 2029.
Tottenham are determined to retain his services, which explains the eye-watering valuation they've set, according to Team Talk. Thomas Frank reinforced that position with his remarks at Thursday's press conference.
He said: "I've just seen Micky today. He seems very happy and smiling. Very happy after the game we won, in the changing room. He's a fantastic player and a fantastic ambassador for this club.
"He's maybe had his best season for the club. He's growing as as leader and a big player for the future. I would say he is very important player for us. Micky is a Tottenham player for us now - and the future."
Adam Wharton update
Adam Wharton
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Adam Wharton is one of the most sought-after midfielders in the Premier League(Image: Photo by Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Liverpool are among the clubs expressing serious interest in Adam Wharton ahead of a potential summer departure from Crystal Palace, according to The Daily Mail.
The England international, 21, has attracted attention from United and Real Madrid, with mounting expectations he could be the next talent to depart Selhurst Park.
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The report suggests Liverpool would be prepared to table an £80m offer for Wharton, should the chance arise to bolster their midfield options, meaning United may have to act fast if they want to land the star.