Manchester United are planning to make at least five new signings during the summer transfer window, with the possibility of bringing in up to three new central midfielders. The Red Devils are keen to strengthen their squad in preparation for a return to the Champions League, with at least eight games expected to be added to next season’s schedule. Midfield remains United’s biggest concern as they prepare to part ways with Casemiro, whose contract expires in June.
Premier League players such as Tyler Adams, Elliott Anderson, Carlos Baleva, Matheus Fernandes, Joao Gomez, Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton have been linked with a move to Old Trafford. Further down the line, Real Madrid’s Aurelian Choameny and Atalanta’s Ederson are also rumored to be targets. According to The Sun, United’s aim is to bring in two new midfielders and the sale of Manuel Ugarte could free up funds for a third.
The Red Devils are also in the market for a new backup goalkeeper, with Andre Onana potentially making a permanent move to Turkish club Trabzonspor. Current second-choice Altai Vaindir is similarly expected to earn more first-team appearances elsewhere next season.
Left-back is also a position under consideration, despite Luke Shaw having a largely injury-free season. Tyrell Malasia’s contract is expiring, while Patrick Dorg is attracting more attention up front, giving United an opportunity to add reinforcements.
A backup striker is also on United’s wishlist. Joshua Zirkzee has been linked with a possible departure, leaving room for a new No. 9 to challenge Benjamin Sesco. Saturday’s lackluster 0-0 stalemate away at Sunderland was further proof 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, which resulted in a decline in the team’s performance.
Anderson is thought to be United’s main target in midfield and will have the chance to impress Carrick, who is expected to secure the role permanently when Nottingham Forest travel to Old Trafford on Sunday.
However, Manchester City are also interested in signing Anderson, and United are reluctant to enter the fray for the England international.
United are said to have held informal talks with relegated Wolves regarding Gomes. West Ham join Wolves in the Championship and could face pressure to drop Fernandes.
Choameni could be available after a showdown with Real teammate Federico Valverde. Miles Lewis-Skelly is a prospect who can fit both the left-back and midfield requirements, but the Englishman has recently regained his place in Arsenal’s starting XI after a frustrating season spent mainly on the bench.
