According to a report by Football365 on Friday, November 6, 2026, former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has revealed five footballers he believes could transform the club's fortunes and help restore its position among Europe's leading teams. His selection includes two Arsenal players, Gabriel Magalhaes and Declan Rice, alongside three other prominent names from European football.

Scholes' proposed list features Real Madrid superstars Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes and midfielder Declan Rice. Although these names are not confirmed Manchester United transfer targets, the former England international's choices highlight the type of quality he believes the club needs to become competitive again.

One of his selections is Gabriel Magalhaes, who could strengthen United's defensive department. The Brazilian defender has established himself as an important figure at Arsenal because of his physical strength, ability to dominate aerial challenges and confidence when dealing with opposing attackers. His contribution during attacking set pieces also makes him a valuable threat in the opposition's penalty area.

Another player on Scholes' list is Jude Bellingham. The Real Madrid midfielder possesses the ability to influence matches through his technical skills, energy, physical presence and attacking contributions. His versatility would give Manchester United additional options in midfield, particularly when trying to create scoring opportunities and control important matches.

Michael Olise is also among the five players identified by Scholes. The Bayern Munich attacker is recognised for his creativity, impressive dribbling ability and excellent delivery in the final third. His capacity to beat defenders and provide quality passes could give United another attacking dimension, especially when facing teams that defend with several players behind the ball.

Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe would bring an outstanding goalscoring record and tremendous attacking pace to Old Trafford. The French international can operate as a central striker or from the left wing, making him a dangerous option against different defensive systems. His finishing ability and movement would offer United another reliable attacking threat.

Interestingly, Scholes initially included Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane in his selection before making a change and replacing him with Arsenal's Declan Rice. The England international's ability to recover possession, protect the defence, distribute the ball and contribute to attacking moves makes him an attractive midfield option.

Scholes' five choices demonstrate the level of recruitment he believes Manchester United would need to challenge for major trophies again. However, the suggestions remain his personal preferences rather than evidence that the club is preparing transfer bids for any of the players mentioned.