Man utd considering Berge, fulham hopes to profit from him

Beijing time (CEST) June 16, The Athletic released its 2026 summer transfer window "Transfer Weekly," which discussed Manchester City's transfer plans.

What happened this week?

Elliott Anderson has always been Manchester United's top midfield target, but Manchester City's offer of over £120 million to Nottingham Forest earlier this month was rejected, and facing such a high transfer fee, Manchester United is no longer able to compete.

Although Manchester United could activate the one-year extension clause in Sancho's contract (Sancho joined Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund in 2021 for €85 million), news of his departure as a free agent this summer was finally confirmed.

Why is the goalkeeper position so important for Manchester United?

Ramos had an excellent debut season, solidifying his undisputed position as the starting goalkeeper, but there is much uncertainty about who will be his backup. Bayindir is expected to leave to seek more playing opportunities, and there is strong interest from Turkey.

Onana will return to Carrington next month after his loan spell at Trabzonspor ends. Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan has expressed his desire to sign Onana, and currently there are not many other clubs interested in him.

Vitek will return to the team after his loan at Bristol City expires, but he is expected to seek first-team opportunities next season, either through a permanent transfer or a loan move. Heaton renewed his contract with the club for another year earlier this month and is expected to continue as the team's third-choice goalkeeper.

Which positions/players are they looking at?

Manchester United have inquired about Summerville's situation. Since Nottingham Forest's asking price for Anderson exceeded the British transfer record, Manchester United are focusing their efforts on other options such as Matheus Fernandes.

The 21-year-old has become one of Manchester United's priority targets, and Manchester United are expected to make an official offer, but the Old Trafford hierarchy is not prepared to meet West Ham United's £80 million asking price.

Manchester United also explored the possibility of signing Alex Scott, who could command a transfer fee of up to £60 million this summer. AFC Bournemouth insists Scott is not for sale and is working to extend his contract, which could include a release clause of approximately £75 million.

Ederson Silva will transfer from Atalanta next month for a total of €45 million, likely after he represents Brazil in the World Cup. Other midfield options include Balde, Tonali, and Adam Wharton.

Berge is another player Manchester United are considering signing. Manchester United scouted Berge in 2024 when he left Burnley to join Fulham, and Fulham hopes to profit from the £25 million transfer fee they paid two years ago.

Although Newcastle United does not intend to sell left-back Lewis Hall, Manchester United remains very interested in him. Manchester United might prefer to strengthen the left-wing attack rather than the left-back position, as Dogu can play both roles.

Additionally, they may also look for another center-forward to enhance Sesko's competitiveness. With Ramos's backup still uncertain, Manchester United have considered signing Leeds United goalkeeper Darlow, who will be a free agent this summer. Johnstone is also an option, with two years remaining on his contract with Wolves.

Which players might leave?

Barcelona's option to permanently sign Rashford for €30 million expired yesterday. Although Rashford is eager to stay in Catalonia, the possibility of Barcelona activating the clause has seemed slim for months, especially after Gordon joined.

Rashford's weekly salary of over £300,000—making him one of Manchester United's highest earners—means any departure deal might not happen until later in the summer.

By then, Rashford will return to Carrington for pre-season training, and Manchester United faces the same challenge in finding a new club for Onana. Manchester United are willing to listen to offers for Ugarte and Zirkzee.