Manchester United have intensified their pursuit of Fulham midfielder Sander Berge as the club continues an ambitious summer rebuilding project under the leadership of INEOS.
The Red Devils are reportedly preparing a move worth around £40 million for the Norway international, who has emerged as one of the club’s leading midfield targets ahead of the new Premier League season. United’s recruitment team believes Berge possesses the physicality, tactical intelligence and Premier League experience required to strengthen a midfield that is expected to undergo significant changes before the transfer window closes.
Having already secured the arrivals of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos and Belgian international Youri Tielemans, Manchester United are still determined to add another central midfielder capable of providing balance, defensive stability and leadership.
The club’s recruitment strategy reflects a clear determination to build a squad capable of competing across domestic and European competitions while addressing weaknesses that affected performances last season.
Berge Emerges as Priority Target
According to reports from England, United view Berge as a more realistic and financially sensible option compared to several high-profile midfielders currently attracting interest across Europe.
While players such as AS Roma’s Manu Kone remain on the club’s shortlist, Berge is considered an attainable signing who already understands the demands of English football.
The Norwegian midfielder enjoyed another impressive campaign with Fulham, where he established himself as one of Marco Silva’s most dependable performers. His composure in possession, aerial dominance and ability to shield the defence have made him one of the Premier League’s most reliable holding midfielders.
United’s football hierarchy believes those qualities perfectly complement the technical creativity already present within the squad.
Sporting director Jason Wilcox has reportedly been heavily involved in shaping the club’s recruitment plans, holding discussions with senior coaching staff to identify areas requiring immediate reinforcement before the new campaign begins.
Why United Need Another Midfielder
Former Manchester United assistant manager Rene Meulensteen believes strengthening midfield remains the club’s biggest priority.
The Dutch coach recently explained that United require at least two or three midfield additions if they are to compete consistently throughout a demanding season.
According to Meulensteen, successful recruitment should focus on variety rather than signing players with similar attributes.
He believes United already possess technically gifted young midfielders like Kobbie Mainoo but still need powerful, athletic players capable of dominating physical battles while maintaining quality on the ball.
His assessment aligns closely with the club’s current transfer strategy.
Berge’s combination of strength, tactical discipline and intelligent positioning makes him an attractive option for a side looking to improve both defensively and in transition.
Other Midfield Options Remain on the Radar
Although Berge has emerged as a leading target, Manchester United continue to monitor several alternatives.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton remains highly admired because of his exceptional passing range and calmness under pressure. The England international has developed into one of the Premier League’s brightest young midfielders and is viewed as a long-term investment.
Brighton’s Carlos Baleba is another player attracting attention.
The Cameroon international has impressed with his athleticism, ball-winning ability and explosive running from midfield, earning praise as one of England’s most promising young talents.
Despite interest in those players, Berge’s experience and relatively lower transfer fee could make him the preferred choice as United attempt to complete their business before pre-season preparations gather momentum.
The Journey of Sander Berge
Born in Bærum, Norway, Sander Berge has steadily built a reputation as one of Scandinavia’s finest midfielders.
He began his professional career with Norwegian side Vålerenga before earning a move to Belgian giants Genk.
His performances in Belgium quickly attracted interest from several top European clubs thanks to his composure in midfield, excellent passing range and impressive defensive awareness.
In 2020, Berge joined Sheffield United in the Premier League, where he gained valuable experience despite the club’s struggles.
Although injuries interrupted parts of his development, he consistently demonstrated his ability whenever fit, becoming one of the team’s standout performers.
Following Sheffield United’s relegation, Berge later joined Burnley before continuing his Premier League career with Fulham.
At Craven Cottage, he rediscovered his best form under Marco Silva, becoming an important figure in midfield and earning regular praise for his consistency, leadership and work ethic.
Internationally, Berge has been a regular member of Norway’s national team, forming part of a talented generation alongside stars such as Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard.
His experience at both club and international level has further enhanced his reputation as a dependable midfielder capable of performing under pressure.
Midfield Overhaul Continues
Manchester United’s determination to sign another midfielder follows significant changes within the squad.
The departures of experienced players and injury concerns have increased the need for additional depth, particularly with the club expected to compete in four major competitions next season.
Recruitment officials believe adding a physically dominant defensive midfielder will provide greater protection for the back line while allowing creative players more freedom in advanced areas.
Berge’s tactical versatility also offers added value, as he can operate as a holding midfielder, a deep-lying playmaker or in a box-to-box role depending on the manager’s tactical approach.
What Happens Next?
Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming weeks as Manchester United seek to finalise another major signing before the new season begins.
Fulham are understood to value Berge highly and may be reluctant to lose one of their key performers without securing a suitable replacement.
However, if United meet the reported £40 million valuation, discussions could accelerate quickly.
For INEOS, securing Berge would represent another important step in reshaping Manchester United’s midfield and reinforcing a squad aiming to return to the top of English and European football after several inconsistent seasons.
