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Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has revealed the key attributes he wants in a new midfielder this summer. The Red Devils are expected to prioritise strengthening the midfield before the 2026/27 season kicks off, particularly with Casemiro set to leave the club.

The Brazilian, who played a crucial role under Carrick, is preparing to depart Old Trafford as a free agent in the coming months. With his exit on the horizon, the Premier League side are actively searching for a replacement capable of filling his shoes, as well as that of Manuel Ugarte.

Ugarte, signed by former manager Erik ten Hag, has struggled to make an impact at the Theatre of Dreams. The Uruguayan has been on the fringes of the squad under Carrick, registering only one start in 16 appearances and accumulating a mere 155 minutes of senior football.

This lack of contribution has pushed United to explore their options in the transfer market, with INEOS reportedly considering the addition of more than one midfielder this window. Carrick, who was officially appointed as United’s permanent manager last Friday, has now explained what he believes defines the ideal player for his midfield setup.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Carrick described the combination of qualities he expects from a Manchester United midfielder. He said, “To be a midfielder at Manchester United, you need to have an element of composure, an element of expression.”

“You’ve got to be positive. You need a level of athleticism to cope with quick transitions and the way we want to play. Ultimately, you have to bring excitement to the game while being ready to defend as well. So, in truth, you’ve got to bring a bit of everything.”

The United boss also noted that the club must identify the right partner for Kobbie Mainoo, who has been in excellent form recently. However, Carrick emphasised that any new signing should contribute more than simply complementing the 21-year-old’s game.

Mainoo had seen limited opportunities under former coach Ruben Amorim, but his fortunes have changed dramatically since Carrick took charge—initially as caretaker in January. The young midfielder, who was previously considering an exit from Old Trafford, committed his future to the club until 2031 last month.

United continue to be linked with a host of midfielders from both the Premier League and abroad, with their final decision expected to shape the direction of their 2026/27 campaign. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is reportedly among their top targets, though recent updates suggest he could be heading to Manchester City instead.

Other potential candidates include Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba, who has been a long-term target. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes have also been mentioned in connection with a move to Old Trafford.

There have additionally been rumours of interest in Real Madrid duo Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde. Yet, reports indicate that Manchester United are close to finalising a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson to strengthen their midfield options.

United showed a clear sense of direction in last summer’s transfer window by bolstering their attacking and goalkeeping departments, and that strategy has paid dividends this season. If INEOS can replicate that success with the midfield rebuild this time around, Carrick will have the foundation he needs to push the Red Devils closer to their ambitions in the upcoming campaign.