Manchester United are expected to monitor the upcoming FIFA World Cup very closely as INEOS continue planning another major rebuild at Old Trafford.
The tournament could provide the perfect opportunity for United scouts and senior figures to assess elite talent capable of transforming the squad.
United are expected to sign at least two midfielders and a left-back. They could enter the market for an explosive winger and another forward capable of easing the attacking burden on the current squad.
Here, we look at several players who could attract serious attention from Man United during the World Cup.
Tyler Adams – USA
Adams is one of the midfielders who have been linked with a move to United for a long time.
The Bournemouth midfielder may not currently sit at the very top of United’s shortlist, but a standout World Cup campaign could tempt INEOS into making a serious move.
Adams naturally operates in a deeper midfield role and could provide valuable rotational depth across a demanding season.
However, his recurring injury problems would represent a significant concern for United before committing to any transfer.
Yan Diomande – Ivory Coast
Diomande has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young wingers in European football.
The 19-year-old has bagged 13 goals and 10 assists this season.
Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are currently viewed as the frontrunners in the race for his signature.
RB Leipzig fully recognise the enormous potential Diomande possesses and are reportedly demanding well over £112 million to even consider selling him.
Although midfield remains United’s top priority, INEOS have already shown they are capable of producing surprise moves in the market when elite talent becomes available.
Aurelien Tchouameni – France
Tchouameni is widely regarded as one of the finest defensive midfielders in world football.
The Real Madrid star would represent a massive upgrade on Casemiro due to his athleticism and ability to dominate midfield battles.
Tchouameni excels at winning the ball back but is also highly composed when distributing possession from deeper areas.
The French international turned 26 earlier this year and could spend his prime years at Old Trafford.
Iliman Ndiaye – Senegal
Ndiaye is a traditional winger capable of carrying the ball forward before cutting inside effortlessly.
The Senegal international registered nine goal contributions last season and increasingly looks ready to take the next major step in his career.
He could play on either wing and serve as a superb rotational option in a season when United are expected to play twice every week.
However, he still has three years left in his deal at Everton. The Toffees have already slapped a staggering asking price of £69m to discourage potential buyers.
Rafael Leao – Portugal
AC Milan winger Rafael Leao is reportedly dreaming of playing in the Premier League.
The Portuguese star already possesses huge experience after making almost 300 appearances across all competitions over the last seven years.
Leao endured a frustrating 2025-26 campaign while being used centrally as a second striker.
However, he has consistently looked far more dangerous when deployed in his natural role on the left wing.
His agent could offer him to United but INEOS must conduct a detailed analysis of his defensive work-rate before considering any move.
Morgan Rogers – England
Rogers is expected to play a big role for the Three Lions after being selected ahead of Phil Foden and Cole Palmer by manager Thomas Tuchel.
The Aston Villa attacker feels settled and comfortable at Villa Park but continues to attract admiration from several elite clubs across Europe.
Villa would reportedly demand at least £100 million before even considering his departure this summer.
He could play on the left wing for United before ultimately replacing Bruno Fernandes in the number 10 role in the future.
Elliot Anderson – England
It is no secret that Elliot Anderson could become one of the biggest midfield stories of the summer transfer window.
Manchester City are currently viewed as favourites in the race for his signature, but Nottingham Forest are refusing to lower their demands.
Forest reportedly want somewhere between £100m and £120m before sanctioning a sale.
Anderson possesses the technical quality, work-rate and composure required to become a marquee midfield signing for United.
If Anderson fails to fully impress during the World Cup, Forest may eventually be forced to reduce their enormous valuation.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
