Top midfielders in the transfer market as Manchester United, Arsenal and Man City hunt

Top Premier League sides are expected to prioritise strengthening their central midfield options when the transfer window opens this summer.

A number of standout players in that position could be available, with several reportedly open to moving to bigger clubs ahead of the new campaign.

Clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea are all likely to target elite midfielders as they prepare for the 2026–27 season.

However, securing these players will require significant financial investment, with top-tier midfielders now commanding fees in the region of £100 million, similar to past high-profile deals involving Declan Rice, Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo.

Although the transfer window is still a few months away, multiple factors will influence where these players eventually land. Domestic competitions are still ongoing, Champions League qualification remains undecided, and uncertainty surrounding managerial positions could also play a role.

In addition, the upcoming World Cup in the United States, scheduled to take place around the same period, could further complicate transfer activity and decision-making.

Even so, early assessments suggest a highly competitive market is forming, with clubs already monitoring key midfield targets as they prepare for a busy summer of recruitment.

Elliot Anderson

The England midfielder is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after players expected to be available in the upcoming transfer window, attracting attention from Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United.

Manchester City are among his strongest admirers, although any move would likely depend on changes within their current midfield setup. While Bernardo Silva’s contract situation remains unresolved, Anderson is not viewed as a direct replacement, meaning the futures of players like Mateo Kovacic and Nico Gonzalez could play a bigger role.

Sandro Tonali

The Italian midfielder has been the subject of ongoing speculation, with reports earlier in the year suggesting a potential departure from Newcastle amid interest from clubs such as Juventus.

Recent remarks from his representative hinted that Newcastle may not be his final destination, suggesting he should be competing regularly in the Champions League. As a result, a move to a bigger English club appears a likely next step, with Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United all monitoring his situation closely.

Adam Wharton

The young England international has emerged as another highly desirable option for top clubs following his impressive displays at Crystal Palace. He is seen as a natural defensive midfielder who can both break up play and dictate attacks from deep.

Although his performances have fluctuated at times this season, he has still delivered standout displays against strong opposition. Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United are all tracking him, while Liverpool has previously shown interest, though other positions are currently a greater priority for them.

Carlos Baleba

Brighton’s Carlos Baleba remains a key target for Manchester United after being their primary midfield option in January. The club is still eager to secure his services, potentially before the World Cup.

A previous enquiry revealed a valuation close to £100 million, which discouraged a move at the time. United are now hopeful that a dip in form could reduce that price, as they aim to make a major midfield signing alongside appointing a permanent manager.

Baleba is viewed as a strong defensive midfielder capable of filling the gap left by Casemiro and forming the foundation of a revamped midfield. Manchester City and Arsenal are also said to be monitoring him.

Joao Gomes

Despite Wolverhampton Wanderers facing a difficult campaign and possible relegation, Joao Gomes has stood out with his performances and continues to attract interest from top clubs.

Manchester United are keeping tabs on him as a potential midfield reinforcement, particularly if they fail to land their primary targets.

Bruno Guimaraes

At 28, Bruno Guimaraes is slightly older than many of the midfielders being considered but is still regarded as one of the league’s top performers in his position.

There has been ongoing speculation about his future, with interest previously coming from Manchester City and more recently from Manchester United. While both clubs admire him, their preference for younger players may place him lower on their priority lists.