The Peoples Person

Manchester United face Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday with Michael Carrick waiting on several fitness decisions, most notably those involving Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo.

Manuel Ugarte is definitely unavailable with a long-term injury, while Amad is unlikely to be ready to start after missing the behind-closed-doors friendly against Lausanne. Carrick’s press conference on Thursday lunchtime should provide a clearer picture.

United’s fitness picture ahead of Tottenham

Amad could potentially make the bench if he has returned to training, but a starting role would appear unlikely given his lack of minutes during the international break.

Patrick Dorgu is also unavailable after suffering a hamstring injury while playing for Denmark. That could mean he will be unavailable for several weeks.

Noussair Mazraoui sustained a lower back injury while representing Morocco and must be considered doubtful. Rashford’s condition is another important variable, while Mainoo withdrew from England duty because of an undisclosed issue.

Benjamin Sesko is ruled out, forcing Carrick to find another solution through the middle. Josh Zirkzee is an alternative, although he does not currently appear to be at the forefront of the head coach’s thinking.

Goalkeeper and Defence

Senne Lammens should start in goal, with Diogo Dalot the leading candidate at right-back. Dalot is fit and therefore represents the safer selection while Mazraoui’s availability remains uncertain.

Leny Yoro strengthened his case to be the starting right centre-back with an excellent debut for France during the international break, but Carrick is likely to retain Harry Maguire alongside Lisandro Martinez in central defence.

Matthijs de Ligt featured against Lausanne and could return to the matchday squad. A place on the bench, followed by a possible second-half appearance, looks more realistic than an immediate start.

Luke Shaw should continue at left-back if fit. With Dorgu out, Harry Amass is the only natural alternative, although Martinez could move wide if Carrick wanted to introduce Yoro, De Ligt or Ayden Heaven centrally.

Midfield

Youri Tielemans is expected to occupy one of the two deeper midfield positions. Mainoo should partner him if he recovers in time, but the youngster’s withdrawal from international duty makes this one of the difficult calls.

Carlos Baleba looked sharp during his unofficial debut in the Lausanne friendly and is the obvious replacement if Mainoo cannot start. Even so, Carrick is likely to favour continuity rather than hand Baleba an immediate competitive debut if Mainoo is cleared.

Attack

Bruno Fernandes is the straightforward selection at number 10, but the three positions ahead of him depend heavily on Rashford’s availability and Carrick’s preferred centre-forward solution.

If Rashford is passed fit, Matheus Cunha could continue to operate as a false nine, with Rashford on the left and Bryan Mbeumo starting from the right.

However, we suspect that Rashford will not have recovered from injury. In that scenario, Cunha would move to the left, Mbeumo would lead the line and Shea Lacey would come in on the right.

Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount are other options.

Final Thoughts

Ugarte, Dorgu and Sesko are unavailable, Rashford may also be ruled out.

Amad is unlikely to be ready to start.

Mainoo is preferred if he passes a fitness check.

Mbeumo could lead the line if Rashford misses out.

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Featured image by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Tottenham Hotspur reportedly attempted to lure Benjamin Sesko away from Manchester United this summer, a new report has claimed.

Sesko speculation

Sesko’s future has been the subject of speculation over the past few weeks, amid reports that he is wanted by some of Europe’s heavyweights.

He has flourished since his move from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2025. Injuries have repeatedly threatened to derail him, but whenever Sesko steps onto the pitch, he makes his presence felt.

The Slovenian has netted twice this season, against Everton in the Premier League and in the Champions League opener against Sabah FK.

A recent report covered by The Peoples Person indicated that Barcelona are keeping tabs on Sesko ahead of the January transfer window. Juventus have also been mentioned as admirers of the player.

It’s understood that United have no desire to let Sesko go, believing he is part of the club’s future and has a key role to play under Michael Carrick this term. Now, CaughtOffside reiterate that Barcelona and Juventus are indeed eyeing Sesko.

The news outlet also highlights an interesting Sesko detail involving Tottenham Hotspur.

Bold attempt

According to CaughtOffside, “United have already rejected interest in Sesko, with Tottenham also making an approach for the striker that was turned down during the summer.”

“The club’s stance appears unchanged, as manager Michael Carrick considers the 23-year-old an important component of his plans for the future.”

It’s said that United value Sesko at around €75 million (£64m). However, this does not mean that a sale would necessarily be entertained.

If accurate, Tottenham Hotspur’s attempt to lure Sesko was bold, given they had just survived relegation and could not offer Champions League football.

The North London club, of course, splashed big during the summer on signings like Savio, Omar Marmoush, Sandro Tonali and Matheus Fernandes. Heading into the meeting with United on Saturday, Roberto De Zerbi’s side lie firmly at the bottom of the Premier League standings.

Featured image by Michael Regan/Getty Images

An update has emerged on Manchester United target Micky van de Ven’s fitness that is likely to impact his involvement with Tottenham Hotspur in the upcoming Premier League game at Old Trafford. The Red Devils are preparing to lock horns with the north London side this weekend when club football resumes.

The game could have great significance for the future of both Michael Carrick and Robert De Zerbi, both of whom are under pressure. Tottenham Hotspur are yet to win a Premier League game and are at the bottom of the table with two draws and three defeats after five games this season.

United, on the other hand, have won just one of their five league games and are 12th in the table. The Red Devils have suffered due to a leaky backline, which has conceded 11 goals in seven games in all competitions.

Understandably, United remain linked with several defenders to address the situation, including Van de Ven, who has stood out despite Tottenham Hotspur’s recent struggles. Although recent reports suggest that the player is unlikely to leave north London in January, that has not stopped the rumour mill from going into overdrive.

United fans will be looking forward to further assessing the Dutchman in this weekend’s Premier League game. However, the 25-year-old’s involvement in the fixture briefly came under doubt after he picked up an injury on Sunday.

Micky van de Ven: Stats by Club

ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow cardsSecond yellow cardsRed cardsMinutes played Tottenham10110324-18,530' FC Volendam48228--4,254' Wolfsburg41137--3,429' Volendam U1932112--2,880' Volendam U218121--636' Volendam U17------- Total230151142-119,729'

Source: Transfermarkt.

Van de Ven’s injury not serious

Van de Ven had to come off during Sunday’s 2-1 win over Serbia after Luka Jovia accidentally stepped on his hand. The situation gave rise to concerns, especially with the key game against United up ahead, and Netherlands manager Xavi has provided an update on the situation.

Speaking after the game, Xavi said: “It’s fine. He felt dizzy because his finger was in a lot of pain. But it’s not a serious injury.”

Dutch outlet VI notes that Van de Ven’s injury scare would have given nightmares to Tottenham Hotspur fans, especially since Jan Paul van Hecke also picked up an injury while on international duty. However, the outlet insisted that both players could return against United this weekend.

The report states: “Van Hecke – like Van de Ven – may well return as early as this coming weekend at Old Trafford.”

United have injury concerns of their own

United have also had to contend with injury troubles of their own, with new signing Carlos Baleba yet to kick a ball. However, the Cameroonian is expected to feature against Tottenham Hotspur, as is Matthijs de Ligt, who has been sidelined since December last year.

Meanwhile, Benjamin Sesko’s involvement is uncertain after he missed the 1-1 draw against Fulham before the international break. Recent reports suggest that the player’s shin injury may be more serious than previously imagined.

One player who may not play any part in the game is Amad, who is still recovering from injury.

Final Thoughts

United cannot afford to drop points against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend. The potential return of De Ligt, coupled with a possible debut for Baleba, is likely to excite fans, who will also be keeping an eye out for Van de Ven.

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

Manchester United’s January pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven appears to have hit a roadblock. The Red Devils are in troubled waters after an underwhelming start to the new campaign, and there is a belief that defensive reinforcements could help stabilise the team.

The Premier League giants invested exclusively in midfield this summer, signing Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba for a combined fee of over £150 million. Meanwhile, Karl Darlow arrived as a free agent to bolster the goalkeeping department, which saw both Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir leave on loan.

However, United have struggled to keep out goals, conceding in every Premier League game and now sit 12th in the table after five games. While it is too early to panic, the Red Devils have just one win in the league and have also exited the EFL Cup after a 3-2 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion.

United were 2-0 up in that game by the 10th minute but conceded three to lose 3-2, further highlighting the need for defensive reinforcements. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person has named Van de Ven among the candidates being considered for the job.

Van de Ven ideal for United

Van de Ven’s Premier League experience, his recovery pace, and his ball-playing ability make him the ideal addition to United’s backline. With Harry Maguire already on the wrong side of 30, the Dutchman could be the leader at the back the Red Devils crave.

Micky van de Ven: Stats by Club

ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow cardsSecond yellow cardsRed cardsMinutes played Tottenham10110324-18,530' FC Volendam48228--4,254' Wolfsburg41137--3,429' Volendam U1932112--2,880' Volendam U218121--636' Volendam U17------- Total230151142-119,729'

Source: Transfermarkt.

Meanwhile, the 25-year-old could even be a replacement for Lisandro Martinez, who has endured a mixed time at Old Trafford and is in the final year of his contract. A centre-back pairing of Matthijs de Ligt and Van de Ven could provide the solidity at the back that the Premier League giants desperately need.

With Spurs struggling for form this season, the previous report suggested that a move could materialise for £80-90 million. However, a contrasting update has now come to the fore that could break United hearts.

Van de Ven settled at Spurs

According to Football Insider, Van de Ven remains settled at Tottenham Hotspur and has no desire to leave in January. The report states: “Micky van de Ven is content at Tottenham and has no plans to explore an exit in January, sources have told Football Insider.”

The report confirms United’s interest in the player and also mentions Liverpool as one of his suitors. However, the Dutchman will not leave Tottenham Hotspur even if their struggles fail to end.

The report added: “The Dutchman is yet to show his best form at the start of this campaign, but will not be tempted away from Tottenham midway through the season even if their struggles continue.”

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, journalist Pete O’Rourke suggested that Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival convinced Van de Ven to stay. He said: “He was considering his future before the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi last March, and obviously De Zerbi played a crucial role in Van de Ven’s decision to extend his stay.”

“Tottenham have had a poor start to the season, there’s no getting away from that, but I don’t think that will have any massive impact on Van de Ven’s thinking right now. He’ll be confident that they can turn things around.”

Final Thoughts

Recent reports suggest that United are planning to invest in the backline in January. If Van de Ven is not available, the Red Devils must switch to an alternative target.

The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment

Overall credibility: 6/10

Why?

✅ United have been linked with Van de Ven by previous reports.

⚠️ This could be speculation from the news outlet rather than the player’s actual position.

TPP view

We believe that it is too early to speculate whether Van de Ven will leave Tottenham Hotspur in January

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

Five points from five games is not the start Manchester United had hoped for. Their performances have been sub-par, and the results reflect this.

Something needs to change, and the international break gave Michael Carrick the opportunity to rethink several areas, starting with his attack.

The trio of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Marcus Rashford has failed to click, and the Red Devils have suddenly lost the attacking flair that made them so dangerous in front of goal last season.

Why the attack is struggling

Two factors are being linked to these struggles: the return of Rashford and a run of injuries. Both have forced Carrick to tweak his attacking set-up, and the changes have cost United.

Mbeumo was influential when playing close to goal. He is now being pushed out to the touchline, and because he is not a tricky one-on-one winger, he influences games less and carries far less threat.

Then there is the Cunha false-nine experiment, designed to fit Rashford in on the left. Game after game, everyone but Carrick has seen that Cunha does not threaten in the role. He drifts everywhere except the opposition box, which gives defenders an easy afternoon against United.

Amad not yet ready

After the break, there was a clamour for Carrick to return to his trusted attacking trio: Cunha on the left, Mbeumo as the striker and Amad on the right.

Reports that Amad was back in training made that tweak look possible. However, a worrying update has now emerged.

On Friday, United hosted their Ineos sister club Lausanne-Sport in a closed-door friendly. According to reputable United source Sully: “Amad wasn’t involved in the Lausanne game today.”

The friendly was meant to help players lacking match fitness, such as Amad, Carlos Baleba and Matthijs de Ligt, sharpen up ahead of a key role against Spurs.

Amad’s absence suggests his return may be further away than many had hoped. Baleba and De Ligt, who both featured, now look more likely to play a significant part against Tottenham than the Ivorian.

It is a big blow if Amad misses out next Saturday, because he offers exactly what the entire front line is missing: one-on-one skill, control of space, and balance. The 20-time English champions may have to wait longer to see their strongest attacking combinations.

With Amad likely to miss the Spurs game, Carrick should really consider starting Shea Lacey on the right wing, with Mbeumo up top and Cunha on the left.

Manchester United have a great opportunity to give fringe players and recently recovered stars valuable minutes ahead of the Premier League’s resumption following the September international break.

The Red Devils are set to face fellow INEOS-owned outfit FC Lausanne-Sport this week in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Carrington.

Players who did not make the cut for their national teams, as well as academy graduates who are knocking on the first team door, are likely to get chances in the game.

Most importantly, Michael Carrick could turn to players who are on their way back from injury to assess how far along they are and whether they are ready to return against Tottenham Hotspur on 10 October.

Carlos Baleba to earn minutes vs FC Lausanne-Sport

Amad is one player who is pushing to play, as is Carlos Baleba, INEOS’ costliest buy of the summer.

According to The Athletic, the ex-Brighton ace has recovered ahead of schedule, and his dedication has impressed coaches at Carrington.

There is a chance that the defensive midfielder will earn his first minutes against the Swiss side.

If the Cameroonian finishes the game unscathed, Carrick could finally hand him his United debut at Old Trafford against their North London rivals.

Carrick needs Carlos Baleba vs Spurs

“Baleba, 22, has actually healed quicker than expected, which allowed him to be part of the matchday squad for the 1-1 draw at Fulham in the final game before players headed off with their countries. His work ethic has impressed staff.

“The midfielder was not deemed fit enough to be selected by Cameroon for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in this window, given he has yet to play a minute this season, but could feature when a United academy side take on Lausanne-Sport of Switzerland later this week.”

Carrick has badly missed the Cameroonian, with the midfield duo of Youri Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo struggling to contain the opposition.

Carlos Baleba will inject energy and legs into the midfield and shield the leaky backline. That should also help improve United’s abysmal fitness stats recorded so far this season.

Feature image Dan Mullan via Getty Images

Manchester United are in the middle of a full-blown injury crisis and it could not have come at a worse time for Michael Carrick.

The international break has seen Bruno Fernandes, Benjamin Sesko, Patrick Dorgu, and Noussair Mazraoui suffer injuries.

Add to this the already sidelined Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo, and the options for the head coach are dwindling fast ahead of United’s return to Premier League action against Tottenham Hotspur.

However, the Red Devils could be in for a shot in the arm with The Sun revealing that one of their best attacking talents could be in line to face Spurs.

Amad injury update

Amad, who suffered an injury in the build-up to the Hull City game, is inching closer to a return.

The 20-time English league champions are hopeful that the “sensational” attacker will make the matchday squad for the game on October 10.

The Ivorian uploaded a picture on social media which was accompanied by an impatient emoji and an hourglass symbol, all of which hinted that he could be set to return imminently.

“MANCHESTER UNITED are hopeful that Amad will return for their first fixture after the international break against Tottenham.

Carrick badly needs Amad

“The 24-year-old winger has been sidelined since the start of the season with a “niggle” he sustained on the eve of the opening defeat to Hull City.

“Amad was not anywhere near fit enough to play in United’s last Premier League game at Fulham on September 20 but he is on track to return against Tottenham next Saturday.”

The former Atalanta ace has been badly missed, with Bryan Mbeumo forced to occupy a wide role in his absence. The ex-Brentford ace would have been a far better fit as the false nine.

Carrick needs all hands on deck if he is to turn the season around and save his own job, and Amad could be the catalyst that kickstarts United’s season.

Feature image Stu Forster via Getty Images

Manchester United are expected to focus on defensive reinforcements in 2027 after investing in the attack and midfield during the last two summer transfer windows. The Red Devils have struggled to keep out goals once again this season, conceding eight times in five Premier League games.

Their only clean sheet in seven games came against minnows Sabah in the Champions League. Meanwhile, Harry Maguire is already on the wrong side of 30 and the English giants have to lay down succession plans soon.

Elsewhere, Matthijs de Ligt has been out for almost 10 months with a knock, while Lisandro Martinez’s contract expires next year. Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are relatively young and also unproven at the highest level.

Previous reports have suggested that United have their sights on Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven to address the issue. It now appears that a bitter rival is already planning to ruin their plans.

United battling Liverpool for Van de Ven

According to Caught Offside, United will face competition from Liverpool in the race to sign Van de Ven. The report states: “Liverpool and Manchester United are both keeping Micky van de Ven under close observation, but Tottenham’s strong contractual position means any future deal would be difficult and expensive.”

“Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Liverpool’s interest appears particularly significant. The Reds are already planning for life after Virgil van Dijk, whose minutes are being managed more carefully this season, and Van de Ven fits the profile of a potential long-term successor.”

“Man United are also understood to be monitoring the Dutchman as they continue assessing their own centre-back options. His age, Premier League experience and ability to play on the left side of defence would all appeal to a club still shaping its long-term defensive core.”

The 25-year-old’s recovery pace and ball-playing ability also make him a fantastic replacement for Martinez in the squad.

Micky van de Ven: Stats by Club

ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow cardsSecond yellow cardsRed cardsMinutes played Tottenham10110324-18,530' FC Volendam48228--4,254' Wolfsburg41137--3,429' Volendam U1932112--2,880' Volendam U218121--636' Volendam U17------- Total230151142-119,729'

Source: Transfermarkt.

Tottenham in strong position

Van de Ven signed a new deal in August that keeps him at the club until 2031, putting Tottenham in a strong position. The player recently revealed that he remains settled at Tottenham Hotspur and believes in Roberto De Zerbi, further complicating matters for United.

The report goes on to suggest that the lack of a release clause in the player’s contract could also work to the North London side’s favour, adding: “There is also no indication of a release clause, meaning Tottenham can effectively name their price.”

“Sources suggest that £80m-£90m valuation looks plausible rather than excessive, particularly after the new contract.”

“That leaves Liverpool and United in similar positions: monitor closely, stay ready, but do not expect an easy deal. If Tottenham’s instability continues and Champions League football remains out of reach, the situation could change. For now, Spurs remain firmly in control.”

Final Thoughts

United have suffered due to a faltering defence for a while and must address the issue in 2027. Although prising Van de Ven away from north London will not be easy, the Dutchman certainly has the ability to solve the Red Devils’ long-standing issue.

The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment

Overall credibility: 5/10

Why?

✅ Van de Ven has been linked with United before

⚠️ Caught Offside is not a reliable outlet for United news.

TPP view

We believe that Micky van de Ven’s performances may have earned him admirers at Old Trafford. However, reports suggesting that United are hot on his heels may be exaggerated.

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

Reports from Germany have delivered an interesting update on Edmond Tapsoba and Manchester United.

Apparently, there is a growing feeling that Tapsoba might leave Bayer Leverkusen for a top European side.

German outlet Fussballdaten reports that if he does depart the BayArena, he is likely to join a Premier League club.

Man United among those in contact with Tapsoba

Links to Premier League sides Man United, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are coming thick and fast.

These clubs “maintain close contact with the player’s representatives to learn about his wishes and the parameters of a potential transfer.”

Interestingly, while the 27-year-old’s deal with Leverkusen does not expire until 2031, the Bundesliga outfit has already made a clear decision over any potential transfer.

Transfer fee set

“The German club has set a minimum limit of €50 million for negotiations and made it clear that offers below this amount will not be considered,” claims the report.

£42 million for Tapsoba looks quite tempting given the rare breed of defender he is.

With his composure, physical dominance and exceptional passing range, this defensive monster would walk straight into the starting XI of most elite teams.

Man United have other transfer priorities

Unfortunately for United fans, the club is unlikely to pursue this transfer.

The focus at Old Trafford at the moment remains firmly on signing a defensive midfielder and a left-back.

It remains a mystery which players will eventually meet these needs. United continue to struggle to secure their top targets for these positions.

However, just as the surprising but worthy arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos came about, it is still expected some beautiful transfer surprises will be sprung before deadline day.

The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment

Overall credibility: 7/10

Why?

✅ Reported by a reputable German outlet specialising in Bundesliga news

⚠️ No other credible source is currently reporting that United are looking to sign a centre-back

TPP View

We believe Man United’s name is being used here purely to generate interest in Tapsoba, given these links have appeared completely out of the blue.

Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images

It is well known that Manchester United are looking for a left-back this summer, but INEOS opted to turn down the chance to sign an England international full-back, as per the latest reports.

Shaw‘s fitness problems have the co-owners worried, and the Red Devils have been linked with a move for Lewis Hall.

Newcastle have made things difficult for United, which has meant the 20-time English league champions are considering alternatives.

Djed Spence was one of them, and according to TEAMtalk, the Tottenham Hotspur ace was offered to United, who baulked at Spurs’ demands.

United baulked at Spurs’ demands

The North London side demanded £45 million on the back of the 26-year-old’s impressive World Cup displays, with other Premier League sides also afforded the same opportunity.

“A host of Premier League clubs were offered the chance to sign the 26-year-old, including Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Everton.

“There was interest, but Tottenham‘s initial asking price of around £45million was viewed as too high and no deal materialised.”

Sky Sports have now reported that the full-back, who can play on either flank, is closing in on a move to Inter Milan.

Djed Spence heading to Inter instead

The Serie A side is paying £30 million, which shows how teams continue to demand a premium when it comes to the Old Trafford side.

“Inter Milan have agreed a £30m deal to sign England defender Djed Spence from Tottenham. Sky Sports News understands the agreement includes a 10 per cent sell-on clause.”

It will be interesting to see who United turn to in the end, with academy star Harry Amass also expected to depart.

The opportunity to sign Myles Lewis-Skelly from Arsenal was also turned down, and this indicates that United still feel Hall is gettable.

INEOS have lined up low-cost alternatives like David Raum, Jorge Salinas, and Joaquin Seys, in case the Magpies do not change their stance.

Feature image Buda Mendes via Getty Images