Manchester United are showing interest in Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha as they explore options to strengthen their midfield ahead of the 2026-27 season, according to Sky Sports Germany. The club had been heavily linked with a move for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, but are reportedly backing away from a deal after Manchester City submitted a second bid worth an initial €122 million (£106m), rising to €138 million (£120m) which Forest rejected.
Michael Carrick’s Nottingham Forest are reportedly unwilling to engage in a bidding war for Anderson, with the player himself seemingly favouring a transfer to City. This shift in pursuit has led United to identify Nmecha as a potential alternative, though they will face competition from City and Real Madrid for his signature.
Nmecha recently impressed on the international stage, scoring in Germany’s 7-1 victory over Curacao at the World Cup and winning a penalty that led to another goal. The 25-year-old began his career in Manchester City’s youth system, making three first-team appearances before moving to Wolfsburg in 2021 where he played 50 games.
He then joined Borussia Dortmund in 2023 for a reported €30 million (£25.9m), becoming a key player with 13 goals in 112 appearances and helping the club reach the 2024 Champions League final. Dortmund, however, are reportedly relaxed about the situation, as Nmecha signed a new contract extending until 2030 in March. That contract includes a €70 million (£51.8m) release clause, but it is not active until the summer of 2027, meaning Dortmund would likely demand a higher fee for an immediate sale.
In separate news, according to the Daily Mirror, Manchester United have informed West Ham United that they are not willing to meet their €92 million (£80m) valuation for midfielder Mateus Fernandes. Despite West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League, the 21-year-old impressed with three goals and four assists, and is believed to favour a move to Old Trafford, though West Ham are hoping to instigate a bidding war with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
