Rúben Amorim could create a seriously threatening Manchester United starting XI if he were handed significant funds to rebuild his squad this summer.
The summer transfer window is always a time when football fans get to dream about summer signings, with major players always on the move and club-to-club talks often ending in endless drama.
For Manchester United, Rúben Amorim is embarking on what is expected to become one of the most significant rebuilds undertaken at the Club since the turn of the century, with many major players such as Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho sold.
The club have already confirmed the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers and is reportedly aiming to secure Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. They are also said to be keen on bringing in a new striker and midfielder, preferably with either Premier League or Champions League experience.
However, a recent report from The Telegraph has revealed that despite falling short of buying the club when Sir Jim Ratcliffe secured a minority investment in 2024, Qatari businessman Sheikh Jassim has not lost hope that he will one day be able to purchase 100% of the team he supports.
What kind of starting XI could Amorim have under Jassim?
Now, there is absolutely zero chance that the Sheikh would be able to purchase United this summer, but let’s say for a moment that he had. His offer to the club was to buy 100% control and also settle the club’s debts, which would allow them to spend more freely in the transfer market.
United are heavily restricted by a lack of cash and tight financial regulations this summer, meaning they cannot spend as much as they would like. However, if they could, one of the first names Amorim would likely look to replace is André Onana in goal.
It has been well documented that United are fond of Brighton shot-stopper Bart Verbruggen, who is out of reach for the club due to his price tag of as much as £60 million. But, with Jassim clearing the club’s debt, it would be a much more realistic transfer.
In defence, Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt, who signed for a combined £90.5 million last summer, would likely stay in the XI as the right and middle centre-back of Amorim’s back three after great displays last season.
Meanwhile, Jarrad Branthwaite, whom United sees as a “perfect” fit for the head coach, could be acquired for £75 million from Everton and deployed on the left side of the centre-back line.
As for the wing-backs, the extra defensive security of Yoro, De Ligt, and Branthwaite could mean that Amad, signed for £18 million in 2021, may play as a very attacking right wing-back, while Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu, signed for £25 million in January 2025, could continue on the left.
Bruno Fernandes is reportedly considering accepting a mega contract offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal amid uncertainty surrounding United’s long-term project. However, with Jassim providing the club with extra funds, the club captain may be more convinced to stay and play as one of Amorim’s two midfielders.
With Amorim wanting those with Premier League experience, Fernandes could then be joined by Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, who is rumoured to be available for around £70 million, in the middle of the park.
As for the front three, this is where United would flourish. Mbeumo is rumoured to cost around £50 million this summer. With Jassim at the helm, there is little doubt United would prioritise paying this to secure the Cameroon international for the right side, with Cunha on the left flank of the striker.
As for who plays up front, the best option available on the market is Victor Osimhen. The 26-year-old marksman is an elite striker, but is demanding a major wage package, which United cannot currently afford.
However, with the player having a £63 million release clause, Jassim’s United would likely ensure they are the club to secure Osimhen this summer and offer him a contract closer to what he is demanding.
In total, United would have forked out a whopping £561 million in transfer fees to build this starting XI, but it would be one that Amorim could use to inflict some severe damage on the rest of the Premier League with.
Amorim’s possible XI if Sheikh Jassim bought United
Verbruggen, Yoro, De Ligt, Branthwaite, Amad, Baleba, Fernandes, Dorgu, Mbeumo, Osimhen, Cunha.
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