Manchester United expected squad vs Brighton as star returns despite transfer links

Manchester United are expected to return Jadon Sancho to the first-team squad despite the recent summer transfer links to Juventus.

After a 1-0 victory over Fulham, secured by Joshua Zirkzee‘s debut goal at Old Trafford, Manchester United are now setting their sights on Brighton.

Brighton currently lead the Premier League table following a commanding 3-0 win over Everton on the opening day. Erik ten Hag’s side will face them in their first home game of the season.

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In the win against Fulham, new signings Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui all made their debuts and left a positive impression on the fans, and it is expected that all three will remain in the squad that face Brighton.

It is also expected that Jadon Sancho will return to the team follwoing his absense against Fulham despite recent links away from the club in the past few days.

According to reports from Italy, Juventus have reentered the fray for the 24-year-old and are “on track” for his signing after initiating contact on Monday. It is claimed United are open to a loan with an obligation to buy despite intially demanding a £40 million transfer.

Sancho missed the Fulham tie after suffering from an ear infection and has since returned to first-team training, meaning he will once again be available for selection.

Although there has been no official news on Victor Lindelöf, he was recently spotted with a crutch supporting his left leg, suggesting that he will be out for the foreseeable future. Ten Hag is expected to field questions surrounding the Swede on Friday afternoon.

Harry Maguire was exceptional against Fulham, and in a recent interview with club media explaind that he is physically and mentlaly fit and ready to play following a season where the 31-year-old was marred with injury.

Rasmus Højlund, Leny Yoro, Luke Shaw, and Tyrell Malacia all remain on the sidelines. Højlund and Shaw are expected back in mid-September, while Yoro and Malacia may not be available until November.

Below, we have estimated the expected 20 squad members to face Fulham on Friday afternoon, not including who may travel as a backup option.

Man United expected squad vs Brighton

Goalkeepers: André Onana, Altay Bayındır.
Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martínez.
Midfielders: Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Scott McTominay.
Forwards: Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho, Amad Diallo, Jadon Sancho, Antony.

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