Vinicius Jr to Man United? Saha Says Carrick Momentum Could Trigger Major Transfer Move

By: Shawn
‎Luis Saha believes Manchester United have the strength and reputation to potentially sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid, particularly with the positive momentum created by Michael Carrick at Old Trafford. Although it remains uncertain who will oversee transfer business next window, expectations suggest United will be very active in the 2026 summer market and could target players from Madrid.
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‎Luis Saha believes Manchester United’s improved form under Michael Carrick could help them compete for Vinicius Junior, while the interim manager strengthens his case for the permanent role.
‎Getty Images Sport 
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‎Temporary leadership is currently shaping both clubs. Vinicius is believed to be enjoying life more in Madrid now than during Xabi Alonso’s spell, when disagreements reportedly occurred between the Brazilian and the former coach. Alvaro Arbeloa is currently acting as caretaker manager of Real Madrid’s first team.
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‎At Manchester United, Carrick is also working as an interim manager and has helped the club re-enter the fight for Champions League places. Qualification for Europe’s elite competition would strengthen United’s ability to recruit top-level players and increase available transfer funds.
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‎Amid ongoing rumours about Vinicius potentially leaving Madrid — alongside speculation linking him with Saudi Arabia — Saha explained to aceodds.com that Manchester United are capable of signing any superstar when performing strongly.
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‎He described Vinicius as a genuine Ballon d’Or contender who is driven to succeed individually while playing at Champions League level. According to Saha, Carrick’s attacking and entertaining football style could provide an appealing new environment for the winger.
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‎United have not yet selected the manager who will control future transfer spending, with Carrick only contracted as interim boss until the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. During this period, he has delivered four consecutive victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham and Tottenham.
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‎Saha strongly believes Carrick should be considered for the permanent managerial role, even though elite figures like Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane are reportedly being considered.
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‎He praised Carrick’s humility, dedication and the immediate transformation he has delivered, stating that his influence has been the most significant seen at the club since Sir Alex Ferguson’s era.
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‎Saha also suggested Carrick has already provided part of the solution regarding United’s long-term managerial decision. However, he admitted the club may want to see how Carrick handles greater pressure before committing fully.
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‎He emphasised Carrick’s deep understanding of Manchester United’s identity due to his playing and coaching experience at the club. While relatively new to top-level management, Saha stressed that Carrick cannot be considered inexperienced. Still, he admitted that competing against world-class managerial names would complicate the selection process.
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‎Although surprised by Carrick’s move into coaching during their playing careers, Saha acknowledged the experience Carrick gained working under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before taking his first managerial role at Middlesbrough.
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‎Manchester United are now preparing for another key Premier League fixture, travelling to face relegation-battling West Ham on Tuesday as they pursue a fifth consecutive league victory.

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