As part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s overhaul of the present roster, Manchester United plans to add up to four new players this summer.
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s approved purchase of 27.7% of the team and important appointments aimed at improving United’s football operations after years of mismanagement, the team seems to be moving forward off the pitch.
Manchester City’s Omar Berrada has already been lured away to take over as United’s CEO, while Dan Ashworth, the sporting director of Newcastle United, is the team’s top pick to take over transfer management at Old Trafford.
Against Fulham on Saturday, United’s shortcomings on the pitch were once again highlighted. Although an agreement to bring Ashworth to United is still pending, the present recruitment staff of the club has determined that four spots require reinforcement.
After more than ten years of subpar business, Ratcliffe has called for improvements in the area of player recruitment. A striker, a right-back, and a center-half are reportedly the club’s top priorities, with a new midfielder also a possibility, according to The Daily Telegraph.
To provide support for Rasmus Hojlund, who signed a £72 million contract to join United from Atalanta last summer, the club is currently evaluating its center-forward possibilities. Since his late winner against Aston Villa on December 27, the Dane has scored in every game he has played in. However, he will now miss three weeks of action due to a muscle issue he sustained during practice.
In the 2-1 loss to Fulham, United struggled with Marcus Rashford and rookie Omori Forson leading the line alternately. With Anthony Martial out with an injury and his contract expiring at the end of the season, United had no other options for the center striker.
Another position that United is eager to improve is center-half. After having foot surgery in September and suffering a knee ligament injury four games into his comeback in early February, Lisandro Martinez has missed the majority of the season.
Although Harry Maguire has filled in, Saudi Arabian clubs are pursuing Raphael Varane, so his long-term future is still up in the air.
Right-backs will also be taken into account. After the current campaign, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has also been linked to a move to Saudi Arabia, will enter the final year of his contract.
In addition to covering for Luke Shaw, who has also had a difficult season due to injuries, Diogo Dalot just inked a new long-term contract.
The Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability guidelines will restrict United’s summer expenditure, potentially preventing any sudden extravagant spending binges. With concerns over Casemiro’s future, United will also be looking for a new central midfield player, should the finances permit it.
This season, the Brazilian has also had trouble staying fit and in form.
