Manchester United are set for a major overhaul in midfield during the 2026 summer window, with Casemiro already confirmed to be leaving.
The announcement of Casemiro’s departure marks the beginning of what looks like a pivotal year for Manchester United’s midfield.
Manuel Ugarte could also follow him out, and there is uncertainty around Bruno Fernandes’ future as well. That could leave United needing two or three new signings just to fill the gaps.
Kobbie Mainoo is expected to take on a bigger role next season, but he will need support around him. Depth is going to be just as important as finding the right partner for him in midfield.
In that context, a previously excellent market choice is now even more impressive.
Elliot Anderson tops Premier League duels won list
Manchester United have three standout options for the midfield this summer: Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Elliot Anderson.
All three would be a good fit alongside Mainoo and represent an immediate upgrade in current ability compared to Casemiro. However, Anderson stands out as the ideal choice above the others.
His performances at Nottingham Forest have drawn comparisons to Declan Rice’s early days at West Ham.
One thing that is clear about him is that he has always been a strong presence without the ball. He is currently sitting top of the Premier League duel charts this season with 182.
The 23-year-old has 24 more than anyone else, with Joao Gomes being the closest midfielder at 134.
It is not the main attribute United will be looking for in their new midfielder, but it goes a long way towards explaining why Anderson is so highly rated – and his ability on the ball matches what he does off it.
In joint-49th place on 100 duels won are Casemiro and Adam Wharton – again showing why United rate the 23-year-old as an upgrade over both their current option and one of their other targets.
Baleba is much further down in 196th place with only 55, which puts him behind several teammates as well as Ugarte.
Casemiro has been United’s main ball-winner in midfield, but Anderson would bring an entirely different level of energy to that role.
Unlike the Brazilian star, who relies more on his positioning and experience, Anderson has shown he can cover ground quickly and get into spots where those duels actually happen.
Why Elliot Anderson and Kobbie Mainoo could anchor Manchester United’s midfield for the next decade
Anderson’s mix of technical skill, athleticism, and defensive awareness would be a real asset in any team. Next to Mainoo, they could form a partnership that balances creativity and grit.
Both players are still young and already England internationals. If things fall into place, Ineos could be building a midfield pairing that could lead the club for years to come.
The move makes sense on so many levels. Even if the fee is around £100m, his impact on performances and potential silverware over time could more than justify the investment.
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