Loftus-Cheek’s Potential Return to Premier League Amid United’s Midfield Search

Ruben Loftus-Cheek emerged as a promising talent when he joined Chelsea’s first-team during the 2014-15 season, which saw the club clinch the Premier League title under manager Jose Mourinho. He scored his first goals for the senior team during the challenging 2015-16 season, contributing twice in 17 appearances. However, he struggled for consistent playing time in the subsequent 2016-17 season.

A loan spell at Crystal Palace proved advantageous for Loftus-Cheek, enhancing his skills and confidence. Upon his return to Stamford Bridge, he made 40 appearances and netted ten goals during the 2018-19 season, helping Chelsea secure the Europa League title. Unfortunately, an Achilles injury sustained in a post-season friendly sidelined him until the Premier League resumed in the summer of 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Loftus-Cheek embarked on another loan, this time with Fulham, where he had a successful campaign. Following two stable seasons back at Chelsea, he made the decision to join AC Milan. Despite speculation regarding his future, new manager Massimiliano Allegri chose to keep him for the summer. However, recent reports suggest that Manchester United might be looking to bring the 29-year-old back to England.

According to talkSPORT, United is contemplating a loan offer for Loftus-Cheek from Milan for the remainder of the season. The Red Devils recently boosted their Champions League qualification hopes with a victory over local rivals Manchester City, thanks to goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, prompting considerations to strengthen their midfield.

This season, Loftus-Cheek has featured in only eight Serie A matches, recording one goal and one assist. He is reportedly eager to return to the Premier League, although discussions with United are still in the preliminary stages.

Additionally, the report indicates that United has shown interest in another former Premier League midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi. The Nigerian international, who garnered attention for his performances with Leicester City from 2017 to 2025, currently plays for Turkish club Besiktas. Ndidi is also interested in a return to England for personal and professional reasons.

United remains in pursuit of a top-four finish this season, navigating the aftermath of former manager Ruben Amorim’s tumultuous tenure. Amorim was dismissed earlier this month, leading to Michael Carrick’s appointment as interim manager. Carrick commenced his tenure with a solid 2-0 victory over Manchester City, placing United fifth in the Premier League, just one point behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

A key player in the recent Manchester derby was Kobbie Mainoo, who had been expected to exit Old Trafford had Amorim stayed. The England international effectively partnered with Casemiro in midfield, allowing Bruno Fernandes to adopt a more creative role further up the pitch.

With only league matches ahead until the season’s conclusion, United has ample preparation time for each fixture. However, their next encounter promises to be challenging as they prepare to face Arsenal on Sunday.