Manchester United’s hopes of a midfield overhaul under a new coach have been hit by a stark reality check. The Red Devils have identified Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson as primary targets for the summer transfer window, but the pursuit of the Premier League duo is intrinsically linked to the club’s ability to secure a seat at Europe’s top table next season.

Manchester City are reportedly closing in on a massive summer reinforcement, with Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson now considered a "done deal" for the club. The 23-year-old showcased exactly why City are so keen to acquire his talents on Wednesday night, popping up with a stunning equaliser at the Etihad Stadium to earn the visitors a hard-fought draw. While his strike dented City's title hopes, it appears to have cemented his future in Manchester as the club's hierarchy looks to overhaul their engine room ahead of next season.

Former Manchester United and England star Lee Sharpe has told GOAL why struggles under Ruben Amorim may end up working in Kobbie Mainoo’s favour. The 20-year-old midfielder has returned to favour at club level under interim Red Devils boss Michael Carrick and is considered to be in contention for an international recall ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton are the two players Manchester United should be targeting to replace Casemiro in the summer, according to a Champions League-winning former Red Devils' star. Casemiro has overcome fierce criticism to play a crucial role in United's unbeaten start under Michael Carrick, although his resurgent displays have not been enough to earn him a new contract.

And there we have it. The January transfer window is closed for another year, and though it was a relatively quiet month when it came to big-money deals, that does now mean we could be set up for another blockbuster summer in terms of comings and goings.