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Manchester United are intensifying their pursuit of Fulham midfielder Sander Berge as part of their ongoing midfield rebuild under INEOS ownership. After adding Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans earlier in the transfer window, the Red Devils are keen on bringing in a third midfield reinforcement to strengthen their squad ahead of a demanding campaign.

United target Berge for midfield boost

According to The Evening Standard, the Old Trafford club are preparing a £40 million offer for Fulham’s Norwegian midfielder Sander Berge. The club’s management view Berge as a realistic and financially sensible alternative to other targets, including AS Roma’s Manu Kone. This move follows a series of strategic planning sessions, during which sporting director Jason Wilcox held discussions with manager Michael Carrick about enhancing midfield depth for the upcoming season.

Meulensteen identifies midfield priorities

Former Manchester United assistant coach Rene Meulensteen has shared insights into the specific types of midfielders the club should focus on this summer. Speaking to Tipman Tips, Sir Alex Ferguson’s former assistant commented: “United must sign at least two, if not three midfielders during this transfer window. That’s the key area that needs strengthening, especially with the number of competitions on the horizon.”

He added: “What United require is variety in their recruitment, not three players of the same style. They already have Kobbie Mainoo, who is an excellent ball player and brings great energy. What they now need is someone dynamic and physically strong.”

Alternative options under review

Meulensteen also highlighted a few Premier League prospects who fit his tactical vision. He said: “I always appreciate technically gifted midfielders. Adam Wharton would be a smart choice for United; he’s calm under pressure, excellent on the ball, and capable of splitting defences with a single pass. He can unlock the opposition with precision, which is something I really admire. Carlos Baleba, on the other hand, is another young, energetic talent — very quick, very dynamic, though slightly different in style.”

INEOS continue midfield rebuild

Manchester United’s proactive transfer strategy aims to ensure the squad has sufficient depth across all areas to compete in four major competitions next season. With Santos and Tielemans already onboard, the club’s recruitment team is prioritising the signing of one more defensive-minded midfielder to replace Casemiro, who departed on a free transfer, and to cover for Manuel Ugarte’s long-term absence due to a World Cup injury. As a result, bringing in a powerful, adaptable midfielder like Berge before the pre-season deadline has become a top priority for the Red Devils.