United will return to the Champions League next season (Image: Getty)
Manchester United are in the midst of a crucial summer transfer window as manager Michael Carrick prepares to take over as manager permanently. The former Red Devils midfielder made a stunning comeback in the second half of the season, leading United to a top-five finish in the Premier League table. That was enough to earn him a full-time contract, having initially been a temporary replacement for Ruben Amorim.
Carrick’s next challenge will be shaping the team in his image for his first full season in the role. United are determined to grow in the Premier League and challenge for the title, with the added responsibility of competing in Europe. Some big decisions will need to be made in the summer to give us the best chance of achieving our goals.
Express Sport assesses United’s current squad and looks at how much work needs to get done…
United are fairly well-stocked in the goalkeeping department, with Senne Lamence establishing himself as the undisputed first choice between the sticks.
Altai Vaindir is also a capable backup player, and upgrading in that department is not a priority for Carrick as there are bigger issues elsewhere.
Tom Heaton’s new contract will strengthen the local squad, while the former Burnley stopper will continue to inherit a wealth of experience on the training ground.
This leaves Andre Onana, who is set to return from a loan spell at Trabzonspor. He appears to have no future at Old Trafford and should be sold at the earliest opportunity, which would be in the best interest of all parties.
Tyrell Malasia is set to leave United, so signing a left-sided defender to cover for Luke Shaw could be a possibility, but Nousair Mazraoui could also play there if needed.
Patrick Dawg, on the other hand, has yet to prove his worth to the Red Devils after 18 months and should be let go.
At least one, and possibly two, right-backs will also need to be targeted. Diogo Dalot rarely lights up the world and United could decide to sign an upgrade and back-up option in the summer.
Given Matthijs de Ligt’s injury trend, there are questions about whether he should be sold. If he moves, the Red Devils could benefit from adding another central defender.
Harry Ammas, meanwhile, could be sold after two memorable loan spells in the Championship against relegated Sheffield Wednesday and mid-table Norwich City.
Loans could be the best option for Tyler Fredrickson and Diego Leon, but Carrick may decide to give the latter a chance to break into the first team.
This leaves Mazraoui, Shaw, Harry Maguire, Aiden Haven, Lenny Yolo and Lisandro Martinez remaining.
Michael Carrick will have some big decisions to make in the coming weeks (Image: Getty)
United are expected to overhaul their engine room as they look to revamp their midfield options following Casemiro’s departure.
Koby Mainu will be a key member of the team next season after experiencing a resurgence under Carrick.
He will be partnered with a new face, who could be Atalanta playmaker Ederson, with reports saying they have reached a verbal agreement on a five-year deal.
United are also keen to sign another midfielder in addition to the Brazilian, with the likes of Sandro Tonali and Elliott Anderson being linked with signings.
Needless to say, Bruno Fernandes will remain at Old Trafford this summer, looking to achieve his best individual results to date.
Manuel Ugarte is a complete failure and won’t be close to the team, while Toby Collier could also move on to pastures new, either through another loan deal or a permanent exit.
Meanwhile, Dan Gore remains highly rated at Old Trafford and could be sent out on loan to gain additional senior experience.
Mason Mount showed some green shooting last season and should remain at United to provide cover alongside the young Fletcher brothers.
United have already said goodbye to Rasmus Hejlund, who will join Napoli on a permanent basis after qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
Joshua Zirkzee has never really established himself as a player worth keeping around, but he could potentially follow the Dane from Old Trafford.
Jadon Sancho is also on a huge wage bill at United and needs to be moved, given that he is unlikely to succeed at the club.
Chido Obi and Ethan Wheatley could perhaps benefit from loan moves in the Championship or overseas as they continue to establish themselves at senior level.
Otherwise, the Red Devils’ attacking line-up is looking quite strong, with Benjamin Sesco, Brian Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Amad set to remain at the club next season.
However, additional demands in Champions League football increase the importance of rotation, so adding quality cover in both the forward and wide positions definitely can’t hurt.
The transfer of Robert Lewandowski, who could be acquired on a free transfer after leaving Barcelona, may also be considered.
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