Manchester United have work to do as the final month of the transfer window edges ever closer.
As Saturday marks the beginning of August, clubs in England have until 11pm on Tuesday, September 1 to finalise any remaining transfer business.
Michael Carrick's team have been active in the summer market already after confirming the arrival of five new players.
Adding to their squad with the additions of goalkeeper Karl Darlow and midfielders Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, the Red Devils have also brought in youngsters Kit Margetson and Tynan Thompson as they plan for the future.
Further work in the transfer market still needs to be done and all connected with Manchester United will be hoping some further new additions come in through the door sooner rather than later.
Preferred midfield options
Tchouameni Real MadridAction Images
A further addition in midfield is required in the final month of the transfer window.
United are looking to bolster their options in the middle of the park with the signing of an experienced player who can operate slightly deeper and also make an impact in the Champions League.
According to The I Paper, a deal for Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni looks to be beyond United's reach at this stage, although that could potentially change towards the end of the transfer window.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
The report states that Manu Kone of Rome and Brighton's Carlos Baleba are the preferred options at present, with club executives believing that both could be available for purchase at a more reasonable price.
Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford and the United States international could possibly be more of an attainable target.
A player with European experience
Manu Kone Romavia Reuters
Manchester United will be back in the Champions League for the first time since the 2023/24 season after Carrick guided them to a top-four finish during his spell as interim boss.
The Red Devils will be looking to go far in Europe's premier competition and the addition of a midfielder with European experience would certainly help.
In terms of both Kone and Baleba, both have never played in the Champions League but they have made European appearances for Roma and Brighton respectively.
Since joining Roma, French international Kone has played 17 times for the Italian side in the Europa League, reaching the Round of 16 on both occasions.
Baleba's only experience of European football with Brighton came during the 2023/24 season as he made six appearances as the Seagulls made it to the last 16 before they were knocked out by Roma.
United do already have an agreement on personal terms in place with the 22-year-old Seagulls star though, dating back to talks last summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Adams does have Champions League experience to his name, however, notably playing against Manchester United for RB Leipzig during the 2020/21 season.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!