Manchester United are poised to intensify their transfer activities in the coming weeks, according to Daily Express
With their sporting structure finalized under INEOS recently, the Red Devils are set to be one of the prominent stories of the transfer window.
Defensive reinforcements are a high priority. Head coach Erik ten Hag, who recently secured a new contract at Old Trafford, experienced an injury crisis last season that hindered his ability to field a consistent back four.
Raphael Varane has left, Lisandro Martinez faced fitness challenges, and Harry Maguire’s future at the club remains uncertain.
Ten Hag urgently needs a reliable center-back pairing, as Martinez, despite being a top option, was often unavailable last season.
United have shown a strong interest in Matthijs de Ligt. Reports from Dutch media indicate that the Premier League club has offered the defender a contract.
The Mirror also states that Ten Hag has spoken with the 24-year-old, who he previously coached at Ajax.
The pursuit of De Ligt is seen as separate from United's interest in Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite. Earlier this summer, United's £35 million bid for Branthwaite was rejected by Everton, who value the defender at £70 million.
Everton's valuation is influenced by recent high-profile transfers of defenders like Wesley Fofana and Josko Gvardiol. However, United are expected to propose a lower fee.
Ten Hag also seeks a defensive midfielder following Sofyan Amrabat’s loan departure and the potential exit of Casemiro, who struggled last season. In their discussions with Everton about Branthwaite, United may explore a deal for Amadou Onana.
The Belgian midfielder impressed at Euro 2024, and Everton previously set his price at £90 million in January. Onana would join a midfield where Ten Hag aims to keep Mason Mount fit and continue the development of Kobbie Mainoo after a strong debut season.
In attack, United are in need of another forward to support Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund.
Lille's Jonathan David, valued at £42 million by Transfermarkt, is a versatile player capable of operating on both wings or as a central striker.
Financing these transfers could be challenging but achievable. Mason Greenwood and Jadon Sancho are expected to leave United this summer, and there are rumors of interest in Marcus Rashford, who might benefit from a new environment.
Man United's potential lineup for the 2024-25 season; Onana, Dalot, De Ligt, Branthwaite, Shaw, Onana, Mount, Mainoo, David, Hojlund, and Garnacho.