According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Saturday, April 11, 2026, Manchester United’s plans to overhaul their midfield this summer are already under serious threat, with Manchester City aggressively positioning themselves to hijack two of their key targets.
At the centre of the problem is Elliot Anderson.
The Nottingham Forest midfielder had been identified as the ideal long-term successor to Casemiro, who is set to depart Old Trafford when his contract expires in June.
However, in a major setback, the 23-year-old now appears to have turned his back on United in favour of a move to the Etihad, with City increasingly confident of sealing a £65 million deal.
The damage may not stop there. According to fresh reports, City are also leading the race for Morten Hjulmand, another midfielder firmly on United’s radar.
The Sporting CP captain has a £70 million release clause, but crucially, could be available for a significantly reduced fee—between £35 million and £44 million—due to a reported gentleman’s agreement.
City have already moved decisively, holding talks with the 26-year-old and establishing themselves as frontrunners.
It is a familiar pattern: swift, calculated action from Pep Guardiola’s side, while Manchester United risk being left reacting rather than dictating.
Anderson’s rise into one of the Premier League’s most reliable holding midfielders explains the demand, but Hjulmand arguably represents even greater value.
A composed, technically elite operator, the Dane boasts a 93 per cent passing accuracy in the Champions League this season, alongside six duels won, two tackles and two interceptions per game in Europe—metrics that underline his all-round authority.
At a potential £35 million, he is widely viewed as a market opportunity too good to ignore. United’s hesitation—reportedly tied to securing Champions League qualification—could prove costly if City finalise a deal first.
There is, however, a compelling counterargument in United’s favour. At City, Hjulmand would face immediate competition from Rodri, an undisputed starter when fit.
At Old Trafford, by contrast, he would likely command the number six role outright, offering both status and guaranteed minutes.
The situation is clear: if United are serious about rebuilding their midfield, they must abandon caution and act decisively.
Otherwise, City will once again dictate the market—and leave their rivals scrambling for alternatives.