Manchester United could be set for a very busy summer transfer window, with several new additions needed.
Manchester United could be one of the busiest teams in the Premier League this summer, with new additions needed across the pitch.
The midfield will be the priority area, especially with Casemiro set to leave the club at the end of the season. United will likely have to bring in two new defensive midfielders, having targeted Carlos Baleba while Casemiro was still at the club.
Elliot Anderson, Baleba, Amadou Onana, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton appear to be the five names on United’s midfield shortlist, potentially hinting at a summer exit for Manuel Ugarte, too, although that decision may be for the new head coach if Michael Carrick doesn’t stay.
A left-winger will also be on the radar, given Marcus Rashford looks set to sign for Barcelona when his loan deal expires at the end of the season. Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha have played there since the formation change, but if Dorgu is considered a wide player, United will need to look for a new left-back.
As such, United have been linked with Rashford’s current teammate, Alejandro Balde.
Romano provides Balde transfer update
Alejandro Balde likes to attack down the left-hand side, allowing the left-winger to cut inside more often, an attribute that could help Matheus Cunha succeed at Old Trafford.
On United’s interest, Fabrizio Romano said: “There have also been many questions about Man Utd and Alejandro Balde. Some reports linked the player with United, but the current situation is very clear.
“Barcelona consider Balde to be a crucial part of their project. Internally, they believe he still has enormous potential and that he is far from the finished product.
“He is still very young, and the club believe he can continue to learn and develop significantly in the coming years. For this reason, at this stage Barcelona have no intention of letting Balde leave for Man Utd.
“In addition, Man Utd already invested in that position with Patrick Dorgu. We will see what United decide to do across several areas of the squad because they are planning a busy summer.”
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United’s summer transfer plan
With a deal for Balde seemingly off, United fans will want to know what Director of Football Jason Wilcox is planning for the summer transfer window.
Romano said: “They want to sign a left winger, and they will look for midfielders as well. We will also see what happens at centre-back. But as things stand today, Man Utd have not started any negotiations for Alejandro Balde.”
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United’s centre-back search will likely end if Harry Maguire signs a new contract. He has been crucial under Carrick, but his current deal is set to expire at the end of the season.
As for the left-back deal, Dorgu and Shaw will be considered as the first-choice, while Harry Amass will be eager to return and impress following an impressive spell at Sheffield Wednesday.
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