Manchester United are looking to rebuild the midfield. This can be done with quite a quirky outcome, which might form a very good trio.
It is no secret Manchester United’s top priority in the 2026 summer transfer window is to strengthen in midfield. Casemiro is set to leave on a free transfer, and Manuel Ugarte’s performances suggest he needs to be replaced.
This means United need to sign two midfielders, at least.
A variety of names have been linked, and two stand out for familiar reasons. Yes, this sounds totally silly, but Manchester United could actually line up with a midfield of Bruno, Fernandes, with Bruno Fernandes too.
Prove me wrong: Bruno Guimaraes is the ideal Casemiro replacement
He has the leadership and goals that are going to be needed after Casemiro's exit…
Bruno Guimaraes walks with ball under his arm for Newcastle.
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Bruno Guimarares and Mateus Fernandes bring guile and Premier League experience
Manchester United could sign two part-namesakes for Bruno Fernandes to play alongside him.
Bruno Guimaraes
Mateus Fernandes
Bruno Guimaraes has been personally recommended by Casemiro as his replacement. The Brazilian was a player United watched in 2022, but failed to pursue a deal for.
Guimaraes has since proven himself as one of the Premier League’s all-round best midfielders, with a strong combination of quality on and off the ball.
More United News
United have held ‘advanced talks’ with Guimaraes’ representatives. Newcastle are very unlikely to qualify for Europe next season.
While he is on the older side at 28, he would be an instant starter, and United could add another younger player into the mix.
Mateus Fernandes pointing in West Ham kit.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Mateus Fernandes has shone for West Ham after they signed him from Southampton for £38 million last summer.
The former Sporting prospect is only 21 and has been a regular for West Ham this season. He would be a younger, more accomplished alternative to Ugarte.
United may still prefer Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, but Fernandes would become a very viable option, especially with the extra Champions League games.
talkSPORT report Manchester United hold interest in Fernandes, who could be cheaper and more available if West Ham are relegated.
It is also notable that he is not expected to be in Portugal’s World Cup squad. This could set him up for a fast-start in pre-season, and not many targets tick this box.
What position would Man Utd be in NOW if Ruben Amorim was still head coach?
Let's hear your views!!!
Getty Images
Yes, it’s a quirky combination, but it’s one that works
Manchester United made clear in summer 2025 that signing players with Premier League experience is a key priority. Moves for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo rebuilt the foundation of the attack.
There are other key targets available too. Elliott Anderson and Adam Wharton are two who also meet the Premier League criteria.
Guimaraes and Fernandes are just options, but could be a potent pairing that meets United’s needs.
Guimaraes would be a ready-made leader in the middle, while Fernandes is good enough to start, with room to grow and develop into a key player in the future, who can rotate with Mainoo.
Both players could fit well with Bruno Fernandes, and everybody could be a winner in this scenario – except for the commentators.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox