---
title: "Michael Carrick targets £40m midfielder to complete Man Utd rebuild"
canonical: "https://readmanutd.com/2026/07/16/man-utd-serious-about-40m-premier-league-star-as-third-signing/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "Man Utd News"
published: "2026-07-16T17:30:00Z"
modified: "2026-07-16T17:30:00Z"
---

# Michael Carrick targets £40m midfielder to complete Man Utd rebuild

**Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Fulham midfielder Sander Berge as Michael Carrick targets a third addition in the position.**

United have already signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa as part of a major midfield rebuild.

However, Carrick still wants an experienced holding player following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s serious knee injury.

According to [TEAMtalk](https://www.teamtalk.com/manchester-united/sander-berge-transfer-news-ineos-serious-signing-fulham-star-man-utd), Berge has returned to United’s internal discussions and is now regarded as a serious option.

The report claims renewed contact has taken place this month while United complete their checks on the Norway international.

Fulham are expected to demand close to £40million, although United believe an agreement could potentially be reached below that figure.

> Manchester United are once again discussing Fulham midfielder Sander Berge internally as they continue refining their midfield shortlist, with [@TEAMtalk](https://x.com/TEAMtalk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) understanding the Norway international is emerging as a serious option for Michael Carrick’s squad.[https://t.co/EQOYVXdNom](https://t.co/EQOYVXdNom)
>
> — Graeme Bailey (@GraemeBailey) [July 16, 2026](https://x.com/GraemeBailey/status/2077760291559854499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)

## Berge could complete Carrick’s midfield rebuild

Berge would bring Premier League experience, physical presence and greater defensive discipline to Carrick’s squad.

The 28-year-old impressed for Fulham last season before playing a central role in Norway’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals.

He is comfortable receiving possession in deeper areas and can protect the defence while more attacking midfielders move forward.

Berge also appears more attainable than several alternatives. Brighton’s valuation of Carlos Baleba remains prohibitive, while Lille are seeking a substantial fee for Ayyoub Bouaddi.

United have also contacted intermediaries regarding Manu Koné, with Chelsea monitoring the Roma midfielder.

As [Read Man Utd recently explained](https://readmanutd.com/2026/07/14/kone-gomes-tchouameni-man-utd/), the final addition must provide the athleticism and defensive coverage missing from the current options.

Berge may not be the most glamorous name on United’s shortlist, but his profile fits an immediate need.

No bid has yet been reported and Fulham remain in control of his future. However, United’s renewed interest suggests Berge is becoming a realistic candidate to complete Carrick’s midfield rebuild.