According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United's owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and manager Erik ten Hag are acutely aware of the challenges awaiting them this summer.
Despite finishing the season on a high note with an FA Cup triumph, the Reds' overall performance last season was below expectations. There is a unanimous belief within the club that significant squad improvements are necessary to reestablish United as contenders for a top-four finish. So far, however, there have been no major changes in terms of player acquisitions or departures from Old Trafford.
Behind the scenes, plans are being formulated to bolster the squad for the upcoming campaign. Here, we examine six realistic transfer targets that could potentially join United this summer, as reported by MEN Sport.
Kobbie Mainoo, Upon his return, discussions will be held to determine his future at the club, with Benfica in a strong negotiating position. Neves' current contract runs until 2028 with a hefty release clause of £105 million.
Despite the significant financial commitment, United may view Neves as a long-term investment capable of anchoring the team alongside Kobbie Mainoo for years to come.
Manuel Ugarte, Alternatively, if United are unable to meet Neves' valuation, they might pursue PSG's Ugarte as a more economical option. The 23-year-old Uruguayan midfielder could be available for around £50 million, offering potential value for money. However, negotiating his wages could prove challenging, given PSG's reputation for offering lucrative contracts, a factor that could strain United's efforts to manage their wage bill under Ratcliffe's cost-cutting initiatives.
Jarrad Branthwaite, Despite Everton's compliance with the Premier League's financial regulations, a move for their centre-back Branthwaite remains a possibility. Everton values him at £70 million, and with Branthwaite content at Goodison Park, United faces a decision on whether to meet this valuation. Investing heavily in a centre-back is risky, but Branthwaite's potential could see his value rise to £90 million if he continues to impress.
Matthijs de Ligt, For a more budget-friendly option, United could turn to Matthijs de Ligt, who finds himself out of favor at Bayern Munich. A potential deal could see United acquire the Dutch defender for as little as £34 million this summer. Despite this, Ten Hag seeks to strengthen his defensive options by potentially signing two centre-backs, which could include both De Ligt and another target like Branthwaite.
Federico Chiesa, Federico Chiesa emerges as an appealing option for United at just £20 million, following Juventus manager Thiago Motta's decision to deem him surplus to requirements. With Mason Greenwood and Jadon Sancho likely departing, United could benefit from adding the versatile winger. Chiesa, aged 26, offers resale value and the potential to build upon his modest tally of ten goals from last season.
Joshua Zirkzee, United's search for a centre-forward could lead them to Joshua Zirkzee, with reports suggesting a deal could be struck for around £46 million, factoring in agent fees. The Dutch striker's potential arrival would provide much-needed support alongside Rasmus Hojlund in United's attacking lineup.
While Manchester United faces challenges in the upcoming transfer window, the potential acquisitions of these six players could significantly strengthen the squad under Erik ten Hag's leadership, aligning with Sir Jim Ratcliffe's vision for the club's future competitiveness.