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As the World Cup knockout rounds take centre stage, Premier League clubs continue to work diligently behind the scenes to prepare for the upcoming season.

Manchester United, who recorded their best campaign since 2022/23 by securing a third-place finish, swiftly confirmed Michael Carrick as their permanent manager following his successful interim spell after Ruben Amorim’s departure in January.

Carrick is now focused on shaping the squad to reflect his footballing philosophy, benefiting from the club’s qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, which strengthens their appeal to potential signings.

One of the latest names reportedly on United’s radar is Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, a player with deep ties to Manchester.

The 25-year-old German international came through the Manchester City academy system, making three senior appearances in domestic cup competitions before being released in 2021.

Following his departure from City, Nmecha joined Wolfsburg, where he spent two seasons before earning a move to Borussia Dortmund. Since then, he has become a full Germany international and delivered a series of impressive performances that have drawn the attention of several Premier League clubs.

Manchester United are among those interested, with the club’s head of scouting, Christopher Vivell, reportedly having made contact with the midfielder, who is currently part of Germany’s World Cup squad.

Recent reports from Germany suggest Newcastle United have also entered the race for Nmecha, with Eddie Howe viewing him as a potential successor to Bruno Guimarães, whose future at St James’ Park appears uncertain.

However, Manchester City are also said to be monitoring their former player’s situation, and according to German outlet Bild, Nmecha himself would prefer a move to either of the Manchester clubs over a transfer to Newcastle.

The report adds that while the reasons behind his preference are not explicitly stated, the lack of European football at Newcastle could be a factor, as both Manchester sides are set to feature in the Champions League next season.

Beyond the Premier League, Nmecha—who was born in Hamburg and is valued at €50 million by Transfermarkt—has also drawn interest from European giants Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

According to FourFourTwo, despite United already finalising a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, the injury suffered by Manuel Ugarte during the World Cup might prompt a reassessment of their midfield plans, depending on the extent of his recovery.

Nonetheless, Nmecha’s long-term contract with Borussia Dortmund, which runs until 2030, means the German club holds a strong negotiating position regarding the player’s future.