Manchester United’s return to the Champions League next season means they will need a bigger team to compete on all fronts, as evidenced by their 0-0 draw with Sunderland.
Elliott Anderson and Adam Wharton are both on Manchester United’s shortlist (Image: BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)
Manchester United are planning to make at least five new signings during the summer transfer window, with the possibility of signing three midfielders. The Red Devils want to strengthen their squad ahead of their return to the Champions League, giving them at least eight extra games next season.
Midfield is a high priority for United as they prepare to part ways with Casemiro when his contract expires in June. Premier League stars such as Tyler Adams, Elliott Anderson, Carlos Baleva, Matheus Fernandes, Joao Gomez, Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton have been rumored.
Other rumored targets include Real Madrid star Aurelien Choameny and Atalanta’s Ederson. According to The Sun, United’s intention is to sign two midfielders, but the sale of Manuel Ugarte could help fund a third midfielder.
The Red Devils are also in the market for a new backup goalkeeper, with Andre Onana potentially joining Turkish giants Trabzonspor on a permanent transfer. Furthermore, Altai Vaindir, who is currently in second place, will likely want more playing time next season.
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Left-back is also an area to watch, despite Luke Shaw having a largely injury-free season. Tyrell Malasia’s contract is about to expire, while Patrick Dorg has been impressing on the pitch.
A backup striker is also on United’s shopping list. It has been suggested that Joshua Zirkzee could leave the club, leaving room for a number nine to compete with Benjamin Sesco.
Saturday’s 0-0 away draw with Sunderland provided further evidence that investment is needed in the Old Trafford hierarchy. Caretaker manager Michael Carrick was forced to make several changes due to the absence of Casemiro and Sesco, and the team’s performance level declined.
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Aurelien Choameny’s future at Real Madrid is uncertain (Image: Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Anderson is seen as United’s top midfield target and will have the chance to impress Carrick, who is likely to take the job full-time, when Nottingham Forest visit Old Trafford on Sunday. However, Manchester City are also interested in Anderson, and United are reluctant to enter the race for the England international.
Meanwhile, United are said to have held informal talks with relegated Wolves over Gomes. West Ham follow Wolves into the Championship and could be forced to sell Fernandes.
Choameni could also feature after his split with Real teammate Federico Valverde. A target that ticks both the left-back and midfield boxes is Miles Lewis-Skelly, who has only recently returned to Arsenal’s starting XI after a frustrating season spent mostly on the bench.
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