Manchester United have reportedly submitted a formal bid for a new signing just hours after sealing a landmark 2–0 victory over rivals Manchester City.
Michael Carrick could hardly have asked for a better beginning to his tenure as head coach. Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu lifted United into the Premier League’s top five and capped off an impressive derby display.
The scoreline arguably flattered City, as United saw three goals ruled out for offside and created enough chances to win by a wider margin. Still, Carrick will take huge encouragement from the performance, having set his side up in a disciplined 4-4-2 shape without the ball, while attacking at pace and in numbers on the counter.
With early exits from both domestic cup competitions, United’s focus for the remainder of the campaign is firmly on the league. Securing Champions League qualification has become the club’s clear objective.
To strengthen their push for Europe, United are expected to explore the January transfer market. Midfield has emerged as the most urgent area for reinforcement, with Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, and Manuel Ugarte currently the only senior options for two central roles.
Although players such as Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Carlos Baleba are understood to be high on United’s wishlist, all three are seen as unrealistic targets during the winter window.
One more attainable option is former Wolves midfielder Rúben Neves, who is currently with Al Hilal and set to enter the final months of his contract. The Guardian recently reported that Carrick would be backed financially should Neves become available in January.
Now, Spanish outlet Fichajes claims United have lodged their first official offer for the Portugal international. The report adds that Al Hilal would be willing to seriously consider a bid of around €23 million, with United’s proposal believed to be close to that valuation.
However, finances could still pose a hurdle. According to The Sun, Neves earns approximately £300,000 per week in Saudi Arabia — a figure comparable to Bruno Fernandes’ wages at Old Trafford. Any move would likely require Neves to accept a significant salary reduction.
Since INEOS assumed control of football operations, United have been determined to rein in the wage bill. As a result, Neves would be expected to earn substantially less than Fernandes if the deal goes through.
At 28, Neves also fits INEOS’ preference for players with proven Premier League experience, following recent arrivals such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
With Casemiro’s contract expiring in the summer and uncertainty surrounding the long-term futures of both Fernandes and Ugarte, central midfield remains United’s top recruitment priority.
Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo completed his first full 90 minutes of the Premier League season in the derby and appears set to play a major role under Carrick. Although the England international’s current deal runs until 2027, United hold the option to extend it by an additional year.
Should Mainoo establish himself as a regular starter, it seems inevitable that the club will look to reopen contract discussions in the near future.
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