Manchester United

Sami Mokbel
Senior football correspondent

Eight years on from his debut and Angel Gomes will never forget his Manchester United roots.

Now capped by England and set for a move to Marseille, he remains a player firmly on the rise.

Despite leaving Old Trafford for Lille five years ago, Gomes says he still owes a lot to his football education in Manchester.

"From the moment you step into the place, the coaches are telling you about the history of the club," explains Gomes.

"The Busby Babes, they show you pictures of George Best and Bobby Charlton. The culture is set early.

"You know everything about the club and what it represents. It's just something that you carry."

After limited first team chances, Gomes left for France in 2020 and has gone on to establish himself as a top midfielder.

And whilst he is aware of the significance of playing for Manchester United, he feels several factors can impact a players success at Old Trafford.

"Players may have been intimidated or not really know about the weight [of the shirt], what it carries and what it takes.

"But ultimately, sometimes, it's down to environment, timing and having the right things in place to help you.

"Sometimes it's not as black and white as they failed or they've not held their own there because of the weight of the shirt."

Read more from the interview here

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

Image source, Tournoi Maurice Revello

Away from the Club World Cup, CONCACAF Gold Cup and European Under-21 championships, there are a few other football tournaments going on.

The prestigious Under-20 Tournoi Maurice Revello concluded in France yesterday, with the host nation beating Saudi Arabia in Sunday's final.

Manchester United striker Chido Obi missed out on the main prizes as Denmark finished third in the competition and France's Steve Ngoura won the player of the tournament.

However, Chido's two goals in the group stage were enough for him to win the organiser's 'Special Award', which is pretty good for a 17-year-old.

United boss Ruben Amorim wasn't expecting Chido to make the progress he did last season, which is why he wasn't picked in the Europa League squad for the knockout rounds when it was submitted in February.

Chido ended up making eight senior appearances, seven as a substitute - and while he didn't score then, he did find the net on the post-season trip to Hong Kong.

With United determined to strengthen their striking department, it will be fascinating to see what 2025-26 has in store for the former Arsenal youngster.

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Monday marks the start of the transfer window re-opening, so teams can now do business until 1900 BST on 1 September.

The most obvious departures are the players who finished last season out on loan and are deemed surplus to requirements.

Yet is it conceivable further deals for Marcus Rashford, Antony or Jadon Sancho could be done early? Probably not.

Indeed, the wages at United are so high, and the performances have been so far below expectations, it is not clear to see what deals might be done quickly.

Alejandro Garnacho has been told he can leave, which suggests he will not return for pre-season training early in July.

There is interest in the young Argentina international. The same is also true of England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, although United are more minded to keep him.

Turkey goalkeeper Altay Bayindir might be one to watch. He now knows he will not be United's first choice, having lost out to Andre Onana in the Europa League final and, in World Cup year, is eager to get regular first-team football again.

Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund, 22, has emerged as a top target for Serie A side Inter Milan. (Gazzetta dello Sport - in Italian), external

The Old Trafford side have decided to keep hold of Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee, 24. (Corriere dello Sport - in Italian), external

Manchester United made contact with representatives of French striker Hugo Ekitike, 22, who plays for Eintracht Frankfurt, this weekend. (Bild), external

Chelsea, Aston Villa and Tottenham are all keeping tabs on Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho, 20, after the Argentine was told to find a new club. (Mail), external

Al-Hilal have improved their offer to Napoli striker and Manchester United target Victor Osimhen, 26, proposing a deal with an annual salary worth up to £42.6m. (Goal), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Monday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

Image source, Getty Images

We had the speculation, the approach, the agreement, the announcement and finally, the confirmation of Matheus Cunha's move to Manchester United from Wolves.

Now we have had the first extended interview on United's media platforms.

It was filmed at Old Trafford before Cunha went on international duty with Brazil, with former United and Watford striker Danny Webber.

A couple of things stood out.

First, Cunha's explanation for why he chose to move to Old Trafford after United's worst season in over half a century, and then, why he thinks it is the right time.

"My decision [is] maybe [strange] to the outside, when you have a choice to go a different way," he said.

"But no-one is like United. I know it was a hard season for everyone but my decision shows what the club means to me and what I believe this club can be."

Cunha had a few disciplinary issues towards the end of his stay at Wolves. He was banned for two games in December after attacking a member of the Ipswich coaching staff at Molineux.

He then had a one match suspension extended by a further game in March after he had 'punched and headbutted' Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez during an FA Cup defeat.

Despite this, Cunha feels he is learning valuable lessons.

"I am more mature," he said. "I try to learn from mistakes. It is the perfect moment for me to come here."

Sami Mokbel
Senior football correspondent

Image source, Getty Images

Tottenham are interested in signing Brentford striker Bryan Mbeumo - who is also a transfer target for Manchester United.

The 25-year-old's former manager at Brentford, Thomas Frank, was named Spurs boss on Thursday.

Earlier this month, Mbeumo was the subject of a bid from United of £45m and £10m in add-ons.

However, no agreement was reached between the two clubs, with the offer falling well short of Brentford's valuation.

Sources have told BBC Sport that Spurs are yet to submit a bid for Mbeumo and there has been further interest in him from other Champions League clubs on the continent.

It is understood there is no release clause in Mbeumo's contract, which still has a year left to run, although there is the option to extend it by another year.

Mbeumo has scored 70 goals in 242 appearances for Brentford since arriving in west London in 2019 from Ligue 2 club Troyes.

The Cameroon international scored 20 times in the Premier League last season.

Image source, Getty Images

Portugese football expert Kevin Fernandes spoke to BBC Radio Manchester about the likelehood of Viktor Gyokeres leaving Sporting CP this summer: "If he sees that there is no movement, and given that it is a crucial time to get his move, he might get impatient and his agent might have to tell him that he has to force his way out of there. For Gyokeres, this might be now or never in his mind."

On the clubs that are interested, he added: "Manchester United are definitely the top runners, with some saying that Juventus are. Even if there hasn't been any offers yet, there is definitely concrete interest in Gyokeres.

"It does look like he will eventually leave this summer."

Listen to the full discussion on Gyokeres here

Manchester United are interested in signing French striker Hugo Ekitike, 22, from Eintracht Frankfurt in a potential £85m deal. (Sky Sports), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Friday's full gossip column

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Neil Johnston
BBC Sport journalist

Image source, Getty Images

New Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha has 27 goals in 65 Premier League appearances over the past two seasons and is regarded at Old Trafford as someone who can make an instant impact, while at the same time adding experience to the team.

"United are lucky they still have their historic appeal and reputation as a club, so players of the Brazilian's quality and potential want to move there," former England midfielder Fara Williams told BBC Sport.

"If he does, there is no doubt he improves the squad."

Creativity, movement and sharp finishing - Cunha's flair and drive have often made the difference in tight games.

He has been the heartbeat of Wolves' attacking threat, scoring crucial goals, linking up play and unpicking defences with moments of individual brilliance.

In addition, in 2024-25 he equalled the record for the most goals scored by a Brazilian player in a Premier League season, alongside Roberto Firmino (2017-18) and Gabriel Martinelli (2022-23).

"Cunha has everything a United team would want," added Williams.

"You cannot question the qualities he possesses and the attitude he has in-game in terms of wanting to do anything to win."

Cunha first played as a number nine at Wolves but those who have watched him regularly over the past couple of years say his best position is as a left-sided number 10.

His natural inclination is to come deep and get the ball, and his strengths include running at defenders and finishing.

His 2024-25 numbers match up to those of United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Cunha scored six times from outside the box - the same number as Fernandes managed. Cunha also registered 51 attempts on target - again, the same number as Fernandes.

Image source, Getty Images

Manchester United's new signing Matheus Cunha says he has "dreamed" of a move to the Red Devils since he was a child watching the Premier League at his grandmother's house.

Cunha scored 15 times and assisted on six occasions in the league for Wolves last season, contributing to 21 of the club's 54 goals in the competition.

"It is hard to put into words my feelings about becoming a Manchester United player," said Cunha.

"Ever since I was a child in Brazil watching Premier League games on TV at my grandmother's house, United was my favourite English team and I dreamed of wearing the red shirt. I want to thank my family and everyone who has helped me make that dream a reality.

"I can't wait for the start of pre-season to get to know my team-mates and prepare for the season ahead. All my focus is now on working hard to become a valuable part of the team, and helping get this club back to the top."

Cunha's combined 21 goals and assists is better than any United player has managed in either of the past two Premier League seasons.

In 2024-25, captain Bruno Fernandes produced eight goals and 11 assists, while in the previous season his combined total was 18.

United director of football Jason Wilcox said: "Bringing in Matheus was one of our main priorities for this summer.

"He has proved his ability to succeed in the Premier League as one of the most exciting and productive forwards in England during his time at Wolves, and before that in Spain and Germany.

"He has all the qualities we are looking for as we seek to build a strong, dynamic and entertaining team capable of challenging for the biggest honours."

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

Image source, Manchester United on X

Manchester United have unveiled their home kit for the 2025-26 season.

The club says it has been inspired by Old Trafford and features different shades of red to signify the different parts of the ground, which Sir Jim Ratcliffe confirmed earlier this year would be demolished as part of his £2bn new stadium plans.

It also contains a "Theatre of Dreams" inscription on the back of the collar.

"The colour red is fundamental to the club's DNA. There have been many different expressions of it over the years and, for this season, we wanted to do something a little different, using the sleeves as a canvas," Adidas senior design director Jurgen Rank.

"The abstract graphic stays true to the club's DNA while providing an innovative look and feel to an otherwise classy and classic jersey."

United say there are two versions of the shirt - one for the players, which they have been consulted on and features the latest technology available to manufacturers Adidas, and a fan version, which the club says helps keep the body dry.

Let us know what you think of the new kit here

Image source, Getty Images

Aston Villa, Newcastle and Tottenham are monitoring developments with Jadon Sancho, 25, after the England winger's return to Manchester United following his loan spell at Chelsea. (Sun), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Thursday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

For obvious reasons, Premier League clubs are wary about promoting the arrival of highly rated youngsters from another academy.

It is why there was nothing from Manchester United last year confirming striker Chido Obi had joined from Arsenal.

But there was a lot of external noise around Obi and, rather unexpectedly, he ended last season as part of Ruben Amorim's first-team squad.

Now United have recruited another promising youngster in 16-year-old England youth international Harley Emsden-James from Southampton.

Emsden-James has attracted a lot of attention due to his performances at Southampton, where there is a handy link for United through technical director Jason Wilcox.

United are trying to target younger players in the hope they can eventually become first-team stars, which would reduce the number of senior players they have to buy.

There are no guarantees, clearly, but Emsden-James is a name to keep an eye on once the Premier League Under-18 season gets started.

Simon Stone
Chief football news reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Matheus Cunha enjoyed a very satisfactory conclusion to his international break on Tuesday night, setting up Vinicus Jr for his first-half winner against Paraguay that confirmed a place in next summer's World Cup.

Cunha's move to Manchester United from Wolves is still to be confirmed but that doesn't mean the £62.5m transfer is in doubt, far from it.

Virtually all the component parts of the transfer are now done, including the medical, so effectively, all that has to happen is for the transfer to be registered.

That cannot happen until the window re-opens on 16 June.

It will be interesting to see whether United register him before 30 June or after as that would be in a different financial year. But it will happen.

Cunha should be on United's pre-season trip to the United States in July.

Image source, Getty Images

Sporting Lisbon president Frederico Varandas says his club will not accept "blackmail and insults" in the bidding process for Viktor Gyokeres.

Gyokeres, 27, has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League, in particular Manchester United and Arsenal.

While the club president says Sporting won't hold out for the release clause set at £84m, he also said that they won't accept an insulting offer.

Speaking to Portuguese media, Varandas said: "I tried to take three days off, I came back yesterday. I saw so much information and counter-information that it is only fair to come and explain the process.

"It started last year, when the season ended and Sporting became national champions. During the transfer market we saw that he was going to stay because there was no offer.

"The agent spoke to us to add some clauses. Hugo Viana, as he always did, and very well, managed the relationship with the agents. This relational space is established with the sports director.

"One of the agent's biggest concerns was whether we would demand the termination clause. Hugo Viana negotiated with the agents over several meetings until the agent demanded the presence of the president.

"At this meeting, which included the president, the agent and Viana, Gyokeres was not present. He wanted to guarantee certain things. And what was agreed? That Sporting would not demand a release clause now. For one reason: he was going to be 27 years old and no player leaves Portugal at 27 for 100 or 90 million euros.

"In that same meeting, the agent wanted to anchor the exit to a value. I said this sentence: 'It's not worth us setting a value because I don't know what will happen in a year's time. I don't know if it will be 40, 60 or 80. What I can guarantee is that I will not demand 100 million euros. From then on, I never spoke to the agent again, I never spoke to the player about departures or values.

"Now I see the agent in the press releasing information. I want to make one thing clear: Sporting has common sense and keeps its word. Gyokeres scored 63 goals and 10 assists. Fantastic performance. Certainly one of the best players to have ever stepped onto Portuguese turf. And Sporting will not demand the clause.

"Now blackmail and insults, Sporting will not accept. One thing is certain: Sporting will not accept 60 million plus 10. As of today, Sporting has not received any proposal for Gyokeres."

Manchester United hold bragging rights as the most popular Premier League club across social platforms, according to CIES Football Observatory., external

Ranking third overall behind Real Madrid and Barcelona, Manchester United total 233.6 million subscribers and followers across X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.

Rivals Manchester City are second highest out of Premier League clubs and fifth overall with 179.5m, with Liverpool (166.7m) and Chelsea (152.9m) just behind.

Arsenal also make the global top 10 with 114.1m, meaning there are five English teams inside the top 10.

Spurs just miss out in 11th with 108.1m, but they did gain an extra 700,000 followers over their North London rivals since June 2024.

A total of 15 English clubs make the top 100, with Leeds United squeezing into the 100th spot with 6.4m.

While fans may not sing about social media followers, global interest has a hand in paying the bills at their beloved football clubs.

Manchester United are evaluating an offer for Napoli's Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen, 26, using Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee, 24, as part of the deal. (Gazzetta dello Sport - in Italian), external

Gianluigi Donnarumma wants to stay with Paris St-Germain despite Manchester United and Inter Milan enquiring about the Italy goalkeeper, 26. (ESPN), external

Want more transfer stories? Read Wednesday's full gossip column

Follow the gossip column on BBC Sport

Image source, Getty Images

BBC Radio Manchester's Joe McGrath says the time taken over the prospective signing of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford is "fair enough" as long as boss Ruben Amorim enters pre-season "with a squad he is happy with".

United have been in talks with the Bees over the 25-year-old's signature since last week but, despite an opening bid, no agreement has been reached yet.

"I think that Brentford want as much out of us as possible so we're in a stand-off with them," McGrath told The Devils' Advocate podcast.

"A couple of bids have been rejected according to media outlets. It's a negotiation process and if Manchester United can save a few million here or there - we know what the board are like.

"They're going to take their time but I'm more worried that the longer they take, the less likely the deal is to happen.

"We don't think too much about the business - we want the player in asap and so does Ruben Amorim. The business side of things means they will wait, go back and forth, haggle, and maybe look at splitting the cost over years. They will do anything to save a few pennies."

United have already confirmed the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5m and football finance expert Kieran Maguire estimated the club will still be well within their profit and sustainability regulations even if they have an outlay of £150m on new signings.

"The only thing that really matters is whether Amorim goes on pre-season with a squad that he is happy with," McGrath.

"That means he has four or five weeks until that is the case.

"Whatever is going on behind the scenes, if you're going to save a few million - fair enough. Just get it done for when Amorim needs his full squad back."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds