Manchester United have now submitted an offer to sign two midfielders, who are being targeted by a number of Premier League clubs.

Man Utd eyeing new midfielders with Mainoo's future in doubt

It would be fair to say Kobbie Mainoo's career has stalled since Ruben Amorim's arrival at Old Trafford, with the 10-time England international failing to make Thomas Tuchel's most recent squad, and his future remains very much up in the air.

Mainoo has started just one game this season, which came in the shock EFL Cup defeat against Grimsby Town, but Amorim clearly wasn't convinced by the performance, given that he has persisted with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in central midfield.

Ahead of the January transfer window, it is becoming increasingly obvious that United will look to sign a new central midfielder, and Real Madrid's Federico Valverde is among the targets, with Mainoo potentially set to be used as part of a swap deal.

However, rather than bringing in an established top-level player, Amorim's side could also look at bringing in some up-and-coming English talents, with Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton among the targets, alongside two youngsters from the Championship.

According to a report from The Boot Room, Man United have now made a double swoop to sign Middlesbrough midfielders Bailey and Anton Palmer, who recently announced their decision to leave the second-tier side.

Their statement read: "We thank everyone involved in developing us into the players we are today from the medical staff to the coaches. This club will forever be a part of us. We have made memories and friendships for life, but it is now time for us to start a new journey."

The twin brothers are expected to move as a pair, and there is certainly no shortage of interest from top clubs, with the entire Premier League 'big six' lodging proposals of their own, while Brighton & Hove Albion are also in the race.

"Special" Palmer brothers could be destined for success

The Palmer brothers are just 16-years-old, meaning they are likely to be some way off first-team level at Man United, but transfer expert Graeme Bailey has previously suggested they could be destined for the top, having already made the Middlesbrough bench.

Bailey said: "The Palmer twins are special – Boro know they have some top talents on their hands. The pair have made rapid strides and the fact both have now made the bench speaks volumes."

The teenagers, who both operate in midfield, are also progressing through the ranks at international level, having made their debuts for England U17s.

As such, it would be fantastic if Man United were able to win the race for the youngsters, but they may also need to bring in a midfielder capable of slotting straight into the starting XI, given the doubts surrounding Mainoo's future.