​Manchester United star Mason Mount is reportedly set to take on a new role under Michael Carrick ahead of the next season, as United pursue a major overhaul of their midfield in preparation for Champions League football and a potential title challenge. Casemiro has already departed after his contract expired, with expectations that the five-time Champions League winner will link up with David Beckham’s Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte is sidelined with an ACL injury he sustained while playing for Uruguay before their World Cup exit, casting doubt on his availability and removing him from United’s immediate plans as he is expected to be out for several months. This places Kobbie Mainoo as the only senior, fit central midfielder on the club’s books, with England’s national team enjoying a strong World Cup run. Yet Mainoo has yet to feature for the Three Lions, while he sits alongside Ivan Toney of the Saudi Pro League and Trevoh Chalobah, who received a late call-up, as the only players yet to play for England at the tournament.
United had agreed a fee with Chelsea for Andrey Santos, with an official announcement anticipated soon. Reports via The Peoples Person indicated that Santos will take the number 17 shirt at Old Trafford.
Another twist has surrounded Ederson, as United had reached an agreement with Atalanta for the goalkeeper, conditional on him passing a medical. Reports of potential underlying issues triggered a more thorough assessment, and on Friday Fabrizio Romano reported that United had pulled the plug on the transfer. Ederson has since left the UK and is said to be disappointed with how events unfolded.
Despite that setback, United remain intent on strengthening their midfield, with a number of targets in view, including Ayyoub Bouaddi, Manu Kone, Adam Wharton, Alex Scott, and Carlos Baleba. In the latest update, Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun reveals that Mount is set to be deployed in a slightly different manner under Carrick, who has a clear plan for his progression. Luckhurst writes that Mount “is prepared to occupy a deeper role at Manchester United to ease their midfield crisis.” He adds that Mount’s positive influence toward the end of last season effectively safeguarded his future, and United head coach Carrick values his work rate and versatility. It is understood that, with Mainoo taking an extended break from the club, Mount is likely to be handed the starting midfield role as United resume pre-season fixtures.
Mount played 23 Premier League games in the 2025/26 season, contributing three goals during that spell. As United look to rebuild their midfield, Mount’s ability to adapt to a deeper position could be pivotal in Carrick’s strategic plan, while the pursuit of additional reinforcements remains ongoing as the club eyes a competitive return next term. The landscape of United’s midfield rebuild continues to evolve, with Carrick’s tactical intent featuring heavily in how Mount could shape United’s approach going forward.