Their new Mainoo: Man Utd pursuing PL star who’s “like prime Roy Keane”
Although it’s only Wednesday, it’s been another eventful week for Manchester United supporters. Just prior to their extraordinary 4-4 draw against Bournemouth on Monday, Ruben Amorim aimed criticism at two academy talents, Harry Amass and Chido Obi.
The reasons for this are unclear, yet it’s certainly not a way to endear players and fans alike. There’s always something happening at Old Trafford these days, right? That 4-4 result was utterly chaotic. On a bright note, United’s attacking lineup appeared as strong as it has in years. The defense, conversely, tells a different tale. It’s in disarray.
Perhaps acquiring one or two midfielders in January could ease the situation.
Man United eyeing a range of Premier League midfielders
Recent reports have indicated that two main targets for INEOS in 2026 are Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson. However, it seems that United will likely have to pay a premium for their acquisitions, prompting the search for alternative options.
One such alternative appears to be Bournemouth’s Tyler Adams, according to reports. Adams was named in the starting XI by Andoni Iraola on Monday evening, but his time on the pitch was cut short as he limped off due to an injury. His replacement that night was 22-year-old Alex Scott, another player said to be on Manchester United’s radar.
This information comes from Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun, who reported earlier in the week that the decision-makers at Old Trafford are contemplating a move for Scott. The report states that United are ‘observing’ the player and may pursue him if Kobbie Mainoo departs the club, ideally on a loan basis at first.
Why Scott could become another Mainoo for Man Utd
All the recent discussions have revolved around Anderson and Wharton. If Amorim and his team can land one of England’s premier midfielders, it could ignite celebrations at Old Trafford.
Scott, however, is certainly not a poor alternative. Recently, he received his first call-up to the England national team from Thomas Tuchel for the November international break, highlighting his development and promise. He stands a solid chance of participating in the World Cup next summer. Why? The young midfielder has been generating buzz ever since his time at Bristol City in the Championship. He received the Young Player of the Year Award for the second tier during the 2022/23 season.
A transfer to Bournemouth followed, where he has quickly become one of the most exciting young talents in the Premier League. Como scout Ben Mattinson noted that he has transitioned between leagues “seamlessly.” Though he has netted just three goals and provided four assists at the Vitality Stadium, he exudes quality and brings significant composure to the midfield.
Regarded as the “Guernsey Grealish” by some, a United media figure remarked during the match against Bournemouth on Monday that he “resembled prime (Roy) Keane.” As he navigated through the happenings at Old Trafford, he was notably effective in duels and consistently pushed to play the ball forward. This is an attribute United could certainly gain from, especially if he is to succeed the proactive Mainoo.
Scott vs Man Utd
Minutes played
85
Touches
39
Accurate passes
19/26 (73%)
Shots
2
Successful dribbles
1/1
Defensive contributions
5
Ground duels won
3/4
Aerial duels won
2/3
Stats via Sofascore.
A midfielder with a diverse skill set, Scott excels in several key performance metrics, particularly in ball progression. According to FBRef statistics, he ranks within the top 14% of Premier League midfielders for progressive carries per 90 minutes with 2.01 and falls into the best 9% for successful dribbles with 1.01. He’s also particularly effective at drawing fouls, placing him among the top 11% of similar-position players in that area.
Scott is also willing to get his hands dirty, averaging 1.34 interceptions per 90 minutes, which positions him within the best 14% of midfielders. Therefore, he shares a similar profile to Mainoo. Both athletes have dynamic abilities, and while they don’t score frequently, their influence on advancing play and disrupting the opposition makes them invaluable assets.
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Published: 2025-12-17 09:10:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
