No signings, no sales. For the second time in a week, Manchester United have missed out on a top midfield target, and Old Trafford’s transfer window remains completely empty. On 25 June, Manchester City agreed a club-record £116m deal with Nottingham Forest for Elliot Anderson, United’s first-choice target. Days later, Tottenham agreed to pay West Ham £85m for Mateus Fernandes. United were keen on both, but baulked at the price.
A Summer of Two Speeds in the Premier League
While Manchester City and Tottenham have written nine-figure cheques, Manchester United have registered zero incomings or outgoings since the transfer window opened. Elliot Anderson had been identified as the club’s top midfield priority.
United made it clear early in the summer they were not prepared to spend the roughly £120m it would take to sign Anderson, a fee the club viewed as excessive.
Two Targets Lost in a Week
On 25 June, Manchester City agreed a club-record £116m deal with Nottingham Forest for Elliot Anderson, the biggest fee in City’s history.
A week later, Tottenham agreed to pay West Ham £85m for Mateus Fernandes. United had tracked both deals closely without ever tabling a formal offer.
What It Means for England’s World Cup Hopefuls
With United standing still in the market, England internationals in the current squad, including Kobbie Mainoo and Luke Shaw, will need consistent playing time and squad depth around them to stay sharp for 2026.
A quiet transfer window raises real questions about competition for places at Old Trafford, and by extension, the match sharpness England’s manager will be assessing before naming his World Cup squad.
FAQ
Why hasn’t Manchester United signed anyone this summer?
The club decided the asking prices for its top targets, particularly Elliot Anderson, were too high relative to its transfer budget for the window.
Who signed the players Manchester United wanted?
Manchester City signed Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116m, and Tottenham agreed a deal with West Ham for Mateus Fernandes worth £85m.
Does this transfer window affect England’s 2026 World Cup preparations?
Indirectly — squad depth and playing time for England internationals at Manchester United could affect their match sharpness heading into the tournament.
Can Manchester United still sign players this summer?
Nothing is ruled out, but as it stands the club has confirmed no incoming or outgoing transfers.
How does this affect Manchester United’s Premier League rivals?
Manchester City and Tottenham have strengthened their squads while United have stood still, potentially widening the gap in form heading into the new season.
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