Michael Carrick is reportedly keen on reuniting with 23-year-old Aston Villa playmaker Morgan Rogers at Manchester United ahead of the 2026/27 season.
A report by TEAMtalk has revealed Michael Carrick’s admiration for Morgan Rogers. The Manchester United head coach worked alongside the Aston Villa playmaker during their time together at Middlesbrough and “has given a glowing endorsement” of the 23-year-old to director of football Jason Wilcox.
The latest update has suggested that Carrick’s recommendation to Wilcox has “strengthened United’s interest as they look to bolster their attacking options” in the summer transfer window. However, Manchester United will face stiff competition from Chelsea for the Englishman’s signature, with Aston Villa demanding around £100 million to part ways with him.
Morgan Rogers and his meteoric rise
Morgan Rogers has established himself as one of the most productive attackers in the Premier League since joining Aston Villa from Middlesbrough in a deal worth £15 million, including add-ons, in February 2024. The 23-year-old took to life at the West Midlands club like a fish to water, and he has been a pivotal figure for Unai Emery in the last two years.
The English international has been solid in the 2025/26 season thus far, scoring ten goals and providing seven assists in 45 outings this term. Meanwhile, Rogers’s exploits have stimulated the interest of several high-profile Premier League clubs, with Chelsea and Manchester United among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Move across the Premier League on the cards?
Chelsea’s interest in Morgan Rogers is understandable. While the Blues have stacked midfield and offensive units, Enzo Fernandez faces an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge, even though he has mended fences with the West London club after his recent comments.
While Rogers will not be a like-for-like replacement for the Argentine international, the West London giants want a partnership between the Aston Villa playmaker and Cole Palmer in the final third. That makes sense, as the 23-year-old Englishman’s arrival will bolster Chelsea’s productivity in the advanced areas, which has been sorely lacking in recent months.
As for Manchester United, the Red Devils are scouring the market for a versatile attacker heading into the summer transfer window. While Bruno Fernandes occupies Rogers’s primary position, the Englishman’s ability to play on the flanks makes him an appealing target for Manchester United as they prepare to play in four competitions in the 2025/26 season.
However, Aston Villa’s hefty asking price may pose some issues, as Chelsea and Manchester United must move a few pieces before sealing a deal worth around £100 million for Rogers. While the valuation is high, the English international has the skill set and potential to live up to the billing as he reaches his peak. Additionally, Chelsea and Manchester United may sense an opportunity to reduce the fee if the Villans miss UEFA Champions League qualification.