Pep Guardiola unhappy as Man United agreed personal terms to sign City top transfer target

Manchester United have been handed an early setback in their plans to strengthen the midfield ahead of the summer transfer window, as one of the players linked with a move to Old Trafford has reached an agreement that goes against the club’s hopes.

It is widely expected that the Red Devils will make significant changes in midfield once the season concludes. The squad is set to undergo a reshuffle, with Casemiro reportedly heading toward the exit on a free transfer, while Manuel Ugarte is also being linked with a potential departure. Current indications suggest the Uruguayan could end up moving to Italy, with Serie A clubs showing interest.

United’s recruitment team has already drawn up a list of priority targets to reinforce the middle of the park. Among the leading names under consideration are Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, and Carlos Baleba, all of whom have impressed with their performances and development.

However, securing any of those players may prove challenging. There are increasing concerns that Manchester City could attempt to beat United to Anderson’s signature, while Crystal Palace and Brighton are both expected to demand substantial fees for Wharton and Baleba respectively.

Because of these complications, the club has also been evaluating alternative midfield options. Several notable names have appeared on that secondary list, including Sandro Tonali, Angelo Stiller, and Felix Nmecha. Unfortunately for United, the latter now appears to be completely off the market.

Recent reports from Sky Germany indicate that Borussia Dortmund have successfully convinced Nmecha to remain at the club by agreeing to extend his contract. The German international had previously been viewed as a likely departure this summer after talks over a new deal stalled.

At one stage, German publication BILD suggested Dortmund were even willing to listen to offers around €70 million, believing the upcoming transfer window might be the right moment to sell the midfielder.

Instead, the club made a strong effort to keep him, with sporting director Sebastian Kehl playing a key role in negotiations. Their persistence has paid off, as Nmecha has now agreed to sign a new contract that will reportedly keep him in Dortmund until 2030.

According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, a breakthrough in talks has been reached, paving the way for the extension to be finalized. Fellow reporter Patrick Berger also confirmed the agreement, noting that the new contract will make Nmecha one of Borussia Dortmund’s highest-paid players.

The deal is considered a major success for the Bundesliga side, who have managed to secure the long-term future of one of their key midfield figures despite attracting interest from several top clubs in the Premier League.

While a future transfer cannot be completely ruled out, the agreement means Nmecha will not be leaving Dortmund this summer. For Manchester United, attention will now likely shift back toward their other midfield targets as they continue preparations for what promises to be a busy transfer window.