Manchester United and Chelsea Battle for 2026 World Cup Star

Manchester United and Chelsea could be set for a direct clash in the summer transfer window as they vie for the signature of Felix Nmecha, following Newcastle United's withdrawal from the race. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder has been linked with several clubs this summer and might be on the move after his World Cup appearance with Germany. According to TEAMtalk, intermediaries have been actively engaging with various Premier League teams to explore a potential transfer in the coming weeks.

Manchester United has already secured the signing of Ederson from Atalanta for £35 million and is expected to bring in one, if not two, more midfielders this summer. The Red Devils had initially targeted Elliot Anderson as their primary midfield objective before he agreed to join Manchester City. The club also maintains an interest in Matheus Fernandes, Alex Scott, Carlos Baleba, and Angelo Stiller.

Chelsea is also keen to bolster their central midfield options, although it appears Xabi Alonso is on the verge of reuniting with former Bayer Leverkusen star Granit Xhaka after his stellar season with Sunderland. This suggests a move for Nmecha currently seems unlikely for both clubs, but their interest could be rekindled if Dortmund agrees to lower their hefty asking price. Recent reports also indicate that Real Madrid is showing interest in the player. The new coach of the "royal club," José Mourinho, is reportedly looking to make significant squad overhauls.