Thomas Hein
You might be excused for rapidly losing track of Manchester United’s summer alterations. Just under 48 hours after Ralf Rangnick’s declaration, he will not be returning to his consultancy post and has left Old Trafford, United named Andy O’Boyle as their new deputy football director.
After 16 years away from the club, the Northern Irishman has returned as an academy coach, which is yet more confirmation that United is shifting its mindset and how they intend to run as an organization.
After a catastrophic season in 2021-22, it is without a doubt that the squad needs a complete overhaul. As a result, Vwin reported that United are set for one of the most significant transfer windows they have had in years to ensure a good start to a new chapter under new manager Erik ten Hag. Continue reading for a closer look at all the hot prospects and those players who are expected to leave the club this summer.
Who Is Expected to Leave United This Summer?
Top players such as Edinson Cavani, Jesse Lingard, Paul Pogba, and Juan Mata are all out of contract and expected to leave. On the other hand, Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, and Dean Henderson, who are still under contract, could potentially leave.
Their exits, which are not premature, will clearly indicate that United has learned from its previous errors and is looking ahead with a fresh perspective. However, these departures also imply that United should bridge some of the voids they leave.
United recognizes they need to improve several areas this summer, including center-back and central midfield. Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, Villarreal defender Pau Torres, and Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips are on their radar.
Unfortunately, with such a substantial overhaul needed and no Champions League football to present to potential new arrivals, United will have to be cautious about blowing their whole budget on one or two top-player acquisitions.
Utd has gone the Showbiz way in the past, spending heavily on players such as Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku, and Angel Di Maria. Unfortunately, they did not get a pleasant return on their investment. Therefore, it is interesting to see who United will go for in this summer window.
Who Has Been Linked to A Man Utd Transfer?
- Frenkie De Jong
According to The Times, Manchester United has been given a huge setback in pursuing Barcelona sensation, Frenkie de Jong. Ten Hag is looking forward to reuniting with his ex-Ajax teammate at Old Trafford next season, with United reportedly willing to break their pay structure to acquire the 25-year-old.
However, despite Barcelona’s willingness to sell him, the La Oranje ace wishes to remain at the Camp Nou in 2022/23 and work his way into Xavi’s ambitions.
- Declan Rice
23-year-old England international Declan Rice is rumored to be United’s top transfer target in this window as Ten Hag attempts to rebuild his midfield following the departure of Paul Pogba.
Rice’s price jumped even further in 2021/22 as West Ham managed to reach the Europa League semifinals after a grueling 50-game season.
On the other hand, the Hammers are preparing themselves for a window of speculation surrounding their midfielder, with Chelsea also in the race.
When Rice resumes for pre-season in July, United will begin discussions with West Ham, and as per the Daily Express, Manchester City’s pursuit of Kalvin Phillips has put them out of the hunt for the Hammers’ star.
- Mason Mount
Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag is exploring a bold approach for Chelsea’s Mason Mount. The 23-year-old England midfielder is an important player for the Blues, but contract negotiations have slowed since Todd Boehly took over the club.
Although the acquisition has already been finalized, the Chelsea academy graduate’s fate in West London is said to be in jeopardy. As a result, Ten Hag is keeping a close eye, and his interest has already been communicated to the player’s management.
- Darwin Nunez
Another hot pick on Hag’s list is Benfica striker Darwin Nunez. After closing the season with 34 goals in 41 matches, the Benfica star’s price has skyrocketed to about £80m.
As a result, Ten Hag fears that Utd might be outpriced in their bid for the striker. Nonetheless, this is to be seen in the coming months.
Other key ballers that have been linked to a United summer move include Ajax defender Jurrien Timber, Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech, Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves, and Bayern Munich’s Corentin Tolisso.
Ultimately, Man United is at the heart of this year’s summer transfer window, set for June 10th to September 1st.
With Ten Hag’s vast technical awareness, notwithstanding United’s purchasing power, it will be interesting to see who the 13-time premier league champions secure into their squad and who they will opt to offload.
