Midfield “architect” admired by United available for £40m, INEOS cannot afford to miss out – report

Manchester United’s quest to add a new midfielder to Ruben Amorim’s roster this summer did not end in glory.

The Premier League giants parted ways with Christian Eriksen at the end of last season and were expected to sign a replacement.

The Red Devils, however, opted to focus all their resources on strengthening the attack instead.

Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko were signed in big-money moves.

Senne Lammens and Diego Leon were brought in as well, but Amorim’s plans to improve the middle of the park remained unfulfilled.

Midfield to be the focus of 2026

With a strong attack and defence at the Portuguese head coach’s disposal, the focus is now likely to be on midfield in 2026.

United also considered various options for the job this summer.

Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba was apparently a priority target of the Old Trafford hierarchy, but the Seagulls refused to entertain any talk of his departure.

The Red Devils, however, are expected to return for the Cameroonian in 2026.

The 21 year old isn’t the only player on Amorim’s radar, though.

Recent reports have suggested that United could also move for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton at the turn of the year.

Interestingly, it now appears that a Lille starlet is on their wish list as well.

Ayyoub Bouaddi has admirers across Europe

Recent reports have suggested that United are among the clubs hot on the heels of Ayyoub Bouaddi.

The young Frenchman has started two of Lille’s three games already this season, and has convinced his suitors.

According to journalist Ekrem Konur, Bouaddi is likely to be available for £30-40m, although the Ligue 1 club want to extend his stay beyond 2027.

Apart from the Red Devils, the 17 year old is also wanted at Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and RB Leipzig.

There are admirers in the Premier League as well, with Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Brighton & Aston Villa all in the race.

#Lille
Tottenham, Aston Villa and Brighton are among several English clubs monitoring Lille’s midfield talent Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United have already sent scouts.

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig are also closely tracking… pic.twitter.com/vOODhYOO8O

— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) September 13, 2025

United have altered their transfer strategy under INEOS and now prefer to target budding talents.

Bouaddi has already displayed maturity beyond his years and could turn out to be an astute addition to Amorim’s roster, if United can get a deal across the line.

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