Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has sparked an intriguing debate among fans by naming his dream midfield partner for rising star Kobbie Mainoo. And the answer might surprise you.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Scholes revealed he would be "happy" to see the Red Devils enter the 2026/2027 season with a midfield duo of Kobbie Mainoo and Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson. "I really liked him when he was at Newcastle," Scholes said. "What I've seen of him has been nothing short of brilliant. What he's done for Forest has been really good."

The 23-year-old Anderson has been turning heads with his performances in the Premier League and Europa League, and Scholes believes he has the quality to handle the Champions League test that United aspire to return to. However, the former midfielder acknowledged that Anderson still needs to "go to that next level" on the European stage.

But here's where it gets complicated. Manchester United are expected to be at the front of the queue when the transfer window opens, but they face stiff competition from local rivals Manchester City. The Citizens can not only meet Forest's asking price but also offer Anderson the wages he desires—currently around £40,000 per week at the City Ground.

United's new ownership, INEOS, introduced a salary cap when they arrived at Old Trafford just over two years ago, aiming to prevent the kind of exorbitant wages that have plagued the club in recent years. This financial discipline could make it harder to compete with City's deep pockets.

Still, there's a growing belief behind the scenes at United that Anderson could be the long-term successor to veteran Casemiro, providing the perfect balance alongside the youthful energy of Mainoo. For Scholes, it's a partnership that could lead United back to glory.

Whether the Red Devils can win the race for Anderson's signature remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: United fans would be thrilled to see that midfield duo lining up at Old Trafford.