Manchester United are planning to replace up to four first-team players this summer in what has been billed as “Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s summer revamp” by The Telegraph reporter Mike McGrath.
The journalist is pretty reliable when it comes to transfer stories and he claims that the Red Devils are looking to sign a striker, right-back, right centre-back and potentially another midfielder depending on who leaves Old Trafford.
Anthony Martial has just a few months left on his contract and, even though the Manchester club do have an option to extend his stay for another year, it is believed he will be let go in June.
The main issue for the Frenchman in recent seasons has been his injury problems. He is currently sidelined until April after undergoing a groin operation.
Martial’s departure this summer will lead to a replacement being brought in who can offer more support for Rasmus Hojlund up front.
Which other players could be leaving United?
Aaron Wan-Bissaka will have a year left on his contract at the end of the season, and no progress has been made on an extension, so the defender could be sold.
Raphael Varane is in the same situation. United are keen to reduce the Frenchman’s £340,000 a week salary but the player doesn’t appear to be willing to compromise in order to secure his future. A transfer to Saudi Arabia could be in the offing.
Casemiro has longer left on his current (it expires in 2026 with an option for another 12 months) but he could follow Varane to the Middle East.
Who are United targeting as replacements?
The club’s transfer targets may change if and when Dan Ashworth is appointed sporting director but there have been plenty of names doing the rounds in recent months.
In terms of right-back, the likes of Jeremie Frimpong and Denzel Dumfries have been on the club’s radar for quite some time. For the centre of defence, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo and Lille’s Leny Yoro are among the options.
If a replacement for Casemiro is needed, midfielders such as Atalanta’s Ederson and Nice’s Khephren Thuram have been suggested, while forwards such as Mathys Tel, Michael Olise and Ivan Toney are being monitored.