Manchester United looks set to make big moves in midfield for the 2026 season. After spending most of the summer fixing the attack, the Red Devils now want a fresh leader in the middle of the pitch.
Casemiro has been strong this year, but the club knows they need someone younger who can control games for many years ahead.
The Brazilian has played well under Ruben Amorim, starting most league matches and putting in solid shifts. But he is nearly 34, and his contract runs out next year.
United do not want to wait too long, and INEOS are already searching for the next top talent who can take over the job.
United Want a New Midfield Boss
Man United’s biggest problem this season has been midfield control. Yes, they do many passes, one of the highest totals in the Premier League, but they do not always dominate matches.
Sometimes they look slow in transitions and weak when opponents attack through the centre.
Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have done okay as a pair, but it’s clear the team needs fresh energy, better ball-winning and more long-term stability.
INEOS wants United to become stronger, faster and more modern. And to do that, they need the right player in the middle, someone who can protect the defence and control the tempo.
United have been checking players already proven in the Premier League. Names like Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson are high on the list.
But the club are also focusing big on young talents from outside England, future stars who can become the next big thing.
And now, all eyes seem to be on Italy.
Sergej Levak: United’s New Midfield Target
Reports in Italy say Manchester United are now watching Sergej Levak, a 19-year-old Croatian midfielder who plays for Atalanta’s Under-23 side.
He has been impressive this season, scoring three goals in 13 matches and showing calmness beyond his age.
United scouts have been following his progress, and they like what they see. Levak plays with great intelligence, knows how to read the game, and has excellent positioning.
Some people even compare his playing style to Rodri of Manchester City, a huge compliment for someone so young.
One thing that stands out is his timing. Levak often arrives in the box at the perfect moment, which makes him dangerous on late runs.
He is strong on the ball, confident with his passing and works hard off the ball. United believe he could grow into a top defensive midfielder or a deep-lying playmaker.
The club are also pleased that he might soon reach the senior Atalanta team. This means he is close to being ready for the next step and could adapt well if the Premier League move happens.
Why Signing Levak Won’t Be Easy
Even though United likes Sergej Levak a lot, the move will not be simple. The youngster is under contract until 2030, giving Atalanta full control.
They will not want to lose a future star cheaply, especially when other European clubs are watching him too.
United do have one advantage, a strong relationship with Atalanta. The Red Devils have already signed Rasmus Højlund and Amad Diallo from the Italian club, and both deals went smoothly.
This connection might help negotiations, but even then, the fee will likely be high, and competition could be fierce.
INEOS, however, is determined to bring fresh young players into the squad. They believe getting someone like Levak early, before he becomes a superstar, is smart business and could save the club a lot of money in the future.
A Young Core is Forming at Old Trafford
In the last year, Manchester United have moved towards a younger squad. They have signed Leny Yoro, Diego Leon, Ayden Heaven, and Sekou Kone, all highly rated prospects.
The plan is clear, build a strong young foundation and develop a squad that can grow together for the next five to ten years.
Levak would fit perfectly into this plan. He could learn from Casemiro, grow under Amorim’s system, and eventually become the main controller in midfield.
United need someone who can break up play, pass with composure and protect the defence, all things Levak has shown at the youth level.
If he does reach Rodri-level, as some people believe he might, then United simply cannot risk missing out.
A Smart Move for the Future
Casemiro has performed well this season, but time waits for no one. United know they must prepare for life after him, and Sergej Levak looks like a strong option for the future.
He is young, talented, tactically clever and already showing the traits of a top midfielder.
Signing him now could be a low-risk move with massive rewards later. If he becomes a star, United will be praised for seeing his potential early. If not, his young age still gives him big resale value.
Either way, INEOS want United to get ahead of other clubs, and Levak might be the next big step in the rebuild.
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