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Jacob Devaney set for senior Manchester United opportunity after stellar St Mirren loan spell
Sameer Bhatia | June 5, 2026 3:55 PM CST

Manchester United are planning a major overhaul of their midfield this summer, with up to three new signings expected to compensate for a similar number of departures.

Casemiro is on the verge of a move to Major League Soccer, while INEOS are eager to part ways with Manuel Ugarte after an underwhelming season.

Academy graduate Toby Collyer could also head for a new opportunity, prompting the Red Devils to explore various options to strengthen their midfield depth.

United have already reached an agreement with Atalanta for Ederson, while co-owners are actively working to secure the signatures of Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, or Elliot Anderson.

However, West Ham’s valuation and Real Madrid’s involvement have made negotiations for the Portuguese midfielder difficult, while Tonali’s high transfer fee and wage demands have also proven to be obstacles.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson appears to be leaning towards a move to Manchester City despite United’s pursuit, forcing INEOS to consider alternate targets.

Michael Carrick is reportedly advocating for the signing of Hayden Hackney, while Aurelian Tchouameni remains a dream target should Real Madrid be willing to sell.

According to a BBC report, if United fail to land any of their primary targets, Carrick could look within the academy to fill the vacant roles.

Tyler Fletcher, who has recently been included in Scotland’s World Cup squad, is one of the standout names being considered, while Jacob Devaney has emerged as another option following his excellent loan stint with St Mirren.

“If Ugarte departs and Ederson arrives, United could lack experience in deeper midfield positions, as Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and Bruno Fernandes usually operate further forward,” the report stated.

“That’s why the club may end up bringing in two or even three reinforcements in that area of the pitch.

“There is also a chance of promoting from within, with Tyler Fletcher, a member of Scotland’s World Cup squad, or Jacob Devaney, who excelled on loan at St Mirren during the second half of the season.”

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international impressed for United’s Under-21 side, which led the club to send him to the Scottish Premiership — a notoriously tough environment for young players to adapt to, as seen with Amad’s experience.

The 18-year-old made 14 starts across all competitions for St Mirren, scoring once and providing an assist.

His commanding performances in defensive midfield played a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation, while also guiding the Buddies to the semi-finals of the Scottish FA Cup.

Michael Carrick has been closely monitoring Devaney’s progress, and there is a strong possibility the young midfielder will be included in United’s pre-season tour squad.

If he continues to impress, the Barnsley-born talent could well secure a permanent spot in the senior team.


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