Considering player candidates

I think it could be helpful to clarify if the user wants a shortlist of candidates along with their styles and estimated fees. Also, I should discuss any winter considerations related to player signings. The date is currently December 29, 2025, but I want to stick to information before October 2024. I can mention players like Neves, Zubimendi, and others, while being careful about uncertain transfers, such as Fofana's. I might suggest Ugarte and Guimarães as well.Analyzing player transfers

It seems that Palhinha is no longer available since he transferred to Bayern in the summer of 2024. Amrabat’s loan has ended, and Casemiro is aging and has high wages, which may not be ideal. Mainoo had a breakout last season and shows promise as a hybrid 6/8 player. Onana is still with Everton. I should also consider profiles like pure destroyer, build-up 6, or hybrid 6/8. Finally, I should think about the tactics and defensive needs for the current team setup.Considering player transactions and scouts

I should mention the possibility of selling players to balance the squad, like Casemiro to Saudi Arabia or funds from Sancho and Greenwood. However, I need to be cautious since Greenwood's future is uncertain; he apparently moved to Marseille in 2024, while Sancho had a loan to Dortmund. I should ask if the user wants a scouting shortlist, including names with fee estimates, but also warn that fees can fluctuate. Proposing internal solutions like Mainoo rotating as a 6 or considering McTominay could be insightful. I'll create a concise list of six player candidates!Evaluating potential midfielders

I need to clarify that one player is Belgian and counts as non-homegrown. For the midfield options, I have a list. Zubimendi from Real Sociedad is an intelligent positional 6 with a 60m clause but isn't very physical. Neves from Benfica is young and pricey at 120m. Ugarte from PSG is a ball-winner, costing 45-60m, while Florentino Luis is slightly cheaper. João Gomes and Doucoure are both options, but the latter has injury concerns. Kimmich could be worth considering, though he might come with high wages. I'm passing on players like Fofana and Phillips.Finalizing player options

I think it's best to narrow down to seven players. I should also mention that if Casemiro is sold, his age and wages could help with balancing the budget. Next, I'll confirm the player's profiles, budget considerations, preferred foot, and aerial ability. From there, I can pick the top three for deeper scouting. I’ll draft scouting reports and see how they fit into the lineup, plus propose a phasing plan. Let’s keep everything concise!