Manchester United close Andrey Santos deal as three midfield targets emerge

Manchester United are continuing to reshape their midfield after a busy summer window. Reports indicate that a deal for Andrey Santos is now close to completion, with the Brazilian poised to make the switch from Chelsea. At the same time, the club have identified three further midfield targets as they look to add depth and quality to the engine room.

The Santos transfer appears to be effectively finalised, with the player expected to undergo a medical in the coming days. The move had been rumoured for some time, and it now looks set to go through as United seek to bolster their options following the departure of Casemiro and a long-term injury to Manuel Ugarte. The club had previously considered Atalanta's Ederson, but that pursuit has been ruled out, freeing up resources for other targets.

Three names on the shortlist

Alongside Santos, United are planning to bring in at least one more midfielder, possibly two. The list of candidates includes Manu Kone, currently with Roma, who is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming World Cup. The Italian club are believed to be keen to showcase Kone during the tournament to increase his market value, but United are keeping a close watch.

Another name is Alex Scott of Bournemouth. The England under-21 international is highly rated for his age and technical ability, though his price tag is likely to be significant. Scott offers a blend of creativity and ball-carrying ability that could add a different dimension to United's midfield. The third target is Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi, a young talent who has been scouted for much of the season. Bouaddi is seen as a player with considerable potential, and his performances at the World Cup have only heightened interest.

The club's midfield overhaul comes after a period of transition. Casemiro's exit left a void in the defensive midfield position, while Ugarte's injury has forced the coaching staff to reconsider their plans. Santos, primarily a box-to-box midfielder, could provide energy and pressing, but he is not a direct like-for-like replacement. The profiles of Kone and Bouaddi suggest they could fill the more defensive roles, while Scott offers something different in the final third.

With the transfer window still open, United are expected to move quickly on at least one of these targets. The availability and asking prices will dictate the final decisions, but the club are determined to give manager Michael Carrick the tools to compete both domestically and in Europe. The next few weeks could be pivotal as the Red Devils look to finalise their squad for the new season.