Manchester United’s summer shopping list keeps getting longer, and the latest name to pop up on their radar might raise a few eyebrows. According to reports, the Old Trafford side is now evaluating Fulham midfielder Sander Berge as a potential midfield addition — a pivot that signals just how complex their transfer planning has become.
Why the shift in focus?
The Red Devils have already moved on from Elliot Anderson after Nottingham Forest reportedly demanded a fee that would have shattered the British transfer record. And while talks with Sporting Lisbon’s Mateus Fernandes — orchestrated through super-agent Jorge Mendes — are progressing, with personal terms not expected to be a hurdle, the club is reportedly balking at West Ham’s £80 million valuation for the Portuguese playmaker.
That sticker shock has sent United’s scouting department exploring other options, and Berge, the 28-year-old Norwegian international, fits a more budget-conscious profile.
Berge’s rise at Craven Cottage
Standing at 6’5″, Berge has quietly become a linchpin for Fulham since his £25 million move from Burnley in 2024. His aerial dominance, knack for breaking up play, and ability to carry the ball forward have made him a reliable presence in midfield. Vincent Kompany, who signed Berge for Burnley from Sheffield United, once described him as an intelligent footballer with a great eye for a pass and the ability to run with the ball.
United reportedly considered bringing him in back in 2024 but ultimately passed. Now, with a World Cup campaign looming — Berge is part of Norway’s squad for this summer’s tournament in North America — his stock could climb even higher if he impresses on the international stage.
The financial picture
Fulham, who paid £25 million two years ago, are expected to want a profit on that investment. While no specific asking price has been confirmed, the number is unlikely to approach the figures being tossed around for other targets. That could make Berge an attractive option for a club that has already spent heavily in recent windows and needs to balance the books.
Other names in the mix
The Berge report is just one piece of a broader midfield puzzle. United have also been sniffing around Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, a technically gifted English midfielder who could reportedly be pried away for around £60 million — even though the Cherries insist he’s not for sale and are working on a contract extension that may include a £75 million release clause.
Other targets on the list include Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton. The club has not confirmed any of these pursuits, but the breadth of options suggests United is casting a wide net as they look to reinforce the middle of the park.
With the summer window still young, expect more twists before any deal is finalized.
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