Revealed: Manchester United’s four priority summer signings under INEOS

Manchester United are looking ahead to the summer transfer window while INEOS make changes behind-the-scenes at Old Trafford.

The Reds are in need of major change at the end of the campaign, both on and off the pitch.

Erik ten Hag’s side have been disappointing this term and are extremely unlikely to qualify for the Champions League next season.

INEOS are expected to lead a squad overhaul with many names leaving the club and several coming into the team.

John Murtough and Richard Arnold have both departed the club and their replacements – Dan Ashworth and Omar Berrada – are yet to fully join up.

“That off-field structure is still changing,” Transfer expert David Ornstein tells NBC Sport. “I revealed last week that John Murtagh has now left as football director. He’s going to be replaced by Dan Ashworth, but Dan Ashworth is on gardening leave from Newcastle, and there’s still no agreement on compensation, despite talks between Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Amanda Staveley, so that situation rumbles on.

“Jason Wilcox should start sooner as technical director. He’ll be coming in from Southampton once they reach an agreement on compensation there too, but that should be easier.

“Omar Baradar is chief executive, starts in the summer, and Sir Dave Brailsford is overseeing all of this, so there’s a bit of continuity there. There are some interim people who can take charge while this situation unfolds, and they’ll be looking to address the transfer window as well.

“They’ve got to get rid of a load of players. You don’t need me to run you through the names.

“They will be looking to sign some key positions as well: centre-back, left-back, a midfielder and a striker.”

Those positions are the expected ones, with United struggling in defence this season in terms of injury and quality. Rasmus Højlund is also in desperate need of an additional forward to rotate with.

Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay all have uncertain futures at Old Trafford, whilst the team cannot rely on 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo to lead their midfield.