Manchester United are reportedly preparing a surprise move for NEC Nijmegen midfielder Kodai Sano as the club's new INEOS ownership shifts focus toward more budget-friendly signings from across Europe.

The Red Devils are facing a major midfield overhaul. With Casemiro expected to depart at season's end and Manuel Ugarte's future still uncertain, United are planning to bring in at least two new midfielders—with a third possible if Ugarte is sold.

Their primary targets include some of the Premier League's brightest talents: Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Adam Wharton, and Carlos Baleba. However, the deep pockets of English clubs mean any of these deals could cost £100 million or more.

That's why INEOS are also scanning European leagues for high-potential alternatives without the premium price tag. Atalanta's Ederson and Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller have both been linked, but according to TEAMtalk, Sano has now emerged as a serious option.

The 22-year-old Japanese midfielder has been turning heads in the Eredivisie, where NEC Nijmegen currently sit third. His rise has been remarkable—joining the Dutch club on a free transfer from his local team Fagiano Okayama in 2023, he has quickly become one of the league's most dynamic midfielders.

But United aren't alone in the chase. Crystal Palace had a January bid rejected, while Ajax, Wolfsburg, and Brighton are all monitoring his progress. In fact, there's a running joke among United fans that the club should just sign whoever Brighton targets next, given their track record with overseas gems.

German clubs RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, and Schalke are also interested, along with Spanish sides Real Sociedad and Real Betis. Monaco and Lyon represent Ligue 1's interest in the versatile Japan international, who can play multiple midfield roles.

For United fans dreaming of a midfield rebuild on a budget, Sano represents the kind of smart, under-the-radar signing that could pay huge dividends—if they can beat the growing list of European suitors to his signature.