Manchester United are intensifying their summer transfer plans, with Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White emerging as a primary target even as the club clarifies its stance on a potential Scott McTominay homecoming.
With Michael Carrick currently keeping United in the Champions League spots, the recruitment department is already looking at how to bolster the squad for 2026/27. However, any move for Gibbs-White will face two major obstacles: a massive price tag and a looming battle with Manchester City.
The Race for Gibbs-White: United vs. City
The 26-year-old Nottingham Forest star has become one of the most coveted creative midfielders in the Premier League. According to the Daily Mail, United are officially monitoring the situation, but they aren’t alone.
- The Valuation: Tottenham previously saw a £60 million bid fail, suggesting Forest will demand even more this summer.
- The Rivals: Manchester City are also credited with an interest, setting the stage for a summer Manchester Derby in the transfer market.
- The Wage Factor: INEOS is reportedly keen on lowering the club’s overall wage bill, which could make negotiations for a marquee Premier League signing “complicated.”
Scott McTominay: No “Last Dance” at Old Trafford
Despite recent rumors suggesting United were looking to bring Scott McTominay back from Italy, those reports appear to be wide of the mark.
Since his £25m move to Napoli in 2024, the Scotsman has become a cult hero, leading them to a Serie A title. His value has since skyrocketed to an estimated £70 million.
| Player | Current Club | Rumored Value | United Stance |
| Morgan Gibbs-White | Nottm Forest | £60m+ | Actively Monitoring |
| Scott McTominay | Napoli | £70m | Not Under Consideration |
Per TEAMtalk, a return for McTominay has not even been discussed within United’s recruitment department. The club is reportedly focused on younger, different profiles to fit Carrick’s evolving system rather than revisiting the past.
Looking Ahead
With United currently sitting in 4th place after the 1-0 win over Everton, the ability to land players like Gibbs-White will largely depend on securing Champions League football. If Carrick delivers a Top 4 finish, United’s hand in the transfer market will be significantly strengthened.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
