Manchester United are facing a big moment. Sources say Michael Carrick is close to becoming interim manager. And with that, rumors of a potential first signing are circulating: Al Hilal midfielder Rúben Neves. This transfer speculation comes as United looks to steady the ship after a difficult run and managerial change, with Neves reportedly available for around £20 million this January 2026 window.
Carrick’s Second Stint and United’s Urgent Need
Michael Carrick, a familiar face at Old Trafford, is apparently set for his second caretaker spell. The club sacked Rúben Amorim following poor results, including a recent FA Cup defeat to Brighton. And that’s left the team in a bit of chaos.
Carrick, 44, knows the club well. He played 464 games for United. His first interim run in December 2021 was unbeaten, with a Champions League win over Villarreal and a Premier League victory against Arsenal. He left after Ralf Rangnick came in. Then he managed Middlesbrough, even getting them to the play-off semi-finals, before leaving in May 2025. He’s been out of work since.
It looks like he’s ready to step back in. United hopes to formally announce him in the next 48 hours, maybe even taking training Wednesday. This move gives the club some direction, at least until season’s end, with big games against Manchester City and Arsenal looming.
United legend Wayne Rooney thinks it’s a good move. He told interviewers Carrick is “a very clever person and has done a very good job at Middlesbrough.” Rooney even joked he’d join Carrick’s staff if asked. “If I was asked to go in of course I would,” he said, according to ESPN.
The Rúben Neves Rumor: A Bargain Bid?
The name on everyone’s lips is Rúben Neves. The 28-year-old Portuguese midfielder joined Al Hilal from Wolves for £47 million in summer 2023. He’s a good player, known for his passing, defending, and leadership. He’s played over 100 games for Al Hilal, even winning the Saudi Pro League title there.
Now, Al Hilal is reportedly open to offers around £20 million. That’s a significant discount from what they paid. It could be Saudi league financial fair play rules, or maybe Neves wants back in European football. This makes him an attractive target for United, especially as the club needs to strengthen its midfield.
United’s hierarchy is ready to move on wishlist players this January, reports say, looking to bolster the squad. Other Premier League clubs are making moves, too. Manchester City signed Antoine Semenyo for £62.5 million from Bournemouth, ESPN’s transfer tracker shows.
Waiting for Official Confirmation
It’s all still rumors and speculation. No official word from Manchester United, Al Hilal, Neves, or Carrick has come out yet. ESPN reports Carrick’s appointment is “closing in.” But the Neves link, while prominent, is still just that – a link, first mentioned by The Guardian and cited by ESPN. No bids, no talks are reported as advanced. The transfer window closes February 3, 2026. And United hasn’t announced any incoming transfers so far.
This January window has been quiet generally for other teams too. Liverpool recalled Owen Beck. West Ham brought in Valentín Castellanos. But United, Fulham, Newcastle, and Wolves haven’t made any moves. The club needs to act fast if they want Neves on board for Carrick’s new era. But first, they need to make that Carrick announcement official. The clock is ticking with a Manchester City derby on Saturday, January 17, 2026.
Soureesh Datta 
Ishaan Singh 
Priyanjan Paul