It was a strong season for Manchester United during which Erik ten Hag guided the storied side back to Champions League play with a third place finish. However, now that they’re in Champions League it’s important to improve their depth. They won’t be able to rotate as much in Champions League matches and Marcus Rashford can’t play as many minutes as he has been. With Lisandro Martinez recovering from a season ending injury and plenty of players to offload this summer, it has the makings to be a busy time for the Red Devils.
This is a team that expects to compete for Premier League titles and as currently constructed, that’s not possible with Manchester City leaps and bounds ahead of the squad. With Arsenal’s improvement, and Newcastle United’s revitalization, just staying in the top four would be a successful season for Manchester United but with the right additions, they can bridge the gap in the league.
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De Gea contract crisis
June 27 — It had long seemed a matter of when, not if, David de Gea’s contract would be extended. All parties agreed that a pay cut on the goalkeeper’s current £375,000-a-week deal was the right thing to do but what has come next is quite remarkable. The Athletic reports that De Gea had not only agreed to fresh terms, he had signed a contract. The issue is United did not do so and instead returned with a counter offer at an even lower salary which the 32 year old has not yet agreed to. His current terms expire on June 30.
With Andre Onana in their sights, it is perhaps no surprise that United are looking to cut costs for a player whose on ball limitations mean he would be better suited to a back up role. However their actions in convincing De Gea to take a pay cut and then asking him to take an even bigger one are unlikely to impress many around the market. — James Benge
Chelsea reject third bid for Mount
June 27 — Chelsea have rejected Manchester United’s third and final offer worth £55 million for Mason Mount, though the bid remains on the table should they change their mind. Mount is out of contract at the end of next season but the London side are demanding a high price for the services of their academy graduate, potentially up to £65 million. The player has already agreed personal terms weeks ago and he’s ready to join the team coached by Erik ten Hag. — James Benge and Francesco Porzio
Onana talks are on
June 23 — The agent of Inter goalkeeper Andre Onana was in England this week to meet with Manchester United as he can be one of the options in case de Gea leaves this summer. However, Inter reportedly are asking at least €50 million to sell the goalkeeper who arrived at the Italian club last summer as a free agent. The agent of the player, Albert Botines, flew to Manchester to speak with the English side about a potential deal.
United are in for Declan Rice
June 21 — Not only Arsenal or Manchester City, Manchester United are also in the race to sign Declan Rice from West Ham this summer. The Telegraph reported that the Red Devils are considering rivalling Arsenal’s move for Rice by proposing a player plus cash deal that could involve Harry Maguire or Scott McTominay moving to West Ham. As per the same report, the expectation remains that Declan Rice is still far more likely to join Arsenal but United would like to sign him if a deal can be constructed ‘within their relatively limited transfer budget this summer’.
United in talks for Hojlund
June 15 — While Manchester United continue their search for the new striker, a new profile emerged as they look for alternatives to Kane. Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund is a potential target but the Danish striker won’t be an easy deal at all. In fact, Hojlund joined the Italian team last summer from Austrian side Sturm Graz in a deal worth around €17 million and he did not disappoint in his debut season, scoring ten goals and providing four assists in 34 games. Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Manchester United will soon submit an offer, while Atalanta have already set the price tag of €60 million to sell the talented striker. Also, Hojlund recently signed with the agency SEG, who also represent Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag.
United say they’re pulling out of Harry Kane chase
June 14 — One name would’ve immediately improved United immediately is Harry Kane as Tottenham’s talisman could be on the move after Tottenham failed to qualify for European soccer. Kane scored 30 league goals last season and has been among the most consistent strikers in the Premier League so it’s clear why United would covet him but price is proving to be an issue and now United have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign hom. Daniel Levy is always a tough negotiator. Already 29, United doesn’t want to break the bank for Kane especially when he could be out of contract next season. With Victor Osimhen also costing close to £150 million, it won’t be cheap to find a forward on the market but as the summer continues, someone will move and set the market.