A new era looks set to dawn on Manchester United, and with it excitement about what may happen in the future.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos Group have gradually been implementing changes at Old Trafford, with some of the most notable happening in recent days. Dan Ashworth was confirmed as United’s new sporting director earlier this week after his exit from Newcastle.
United have also confirmed that Erik ten Hag has signed a new contract with the club. The Reds boss has committed his future at Old Trafford until 2026 and work will already be underway to prepare for next season.
The summer transfer window is open and United have been linked with several potential new signings. Centre-back is a known area of the squad that the Reds are keen to strengthen this summer.
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Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt is a target for United but is currently with the Netherlands squad at Euro 2024. Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is also a player of interest to the Reds.
In midfield, there is also speculation that Benfica star Joao Neves could be a target for United. The Portugal international is reported to have a release clause of over £100 million, with Benfica seemingly unwilling to accept a fee any lower.
In the forward areas, several players have been linked with a move to United. The Bologna striker is one player who could make the switch to Old Trafford, with the Netherlands international having a £34 million release clause in his contract.
There have also been tentative rumours linking Napoli striker Victor Osimhen with a move to United. However, this may be the most unlikely of deals to happen, unless funds were generated through a sale of one of the club’s main stars such as Marcus Rashford.
Were United to allow Rashford to leave the club, then it’s plausible that a replacement may be found. Osimhen is regarded as one of the most talented strikers in Europe, and the opportunity to sign him may be a dream possibility for United.
When it comes to players already at the club, several are still viewed as vital members of United’s squad. Andre Onana, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund and Amad Diallo could all feature in Ten Hag’s first-choice starting line-up next season.
If United were to sign all of the aforementioned players, it would certainly add welcome depth and additional quality to the squad at Old Trafford. However, it must be said that the line-up listed below is one of a ‘dream’ scenario and may not actually materialise.
United dream line-up for the 2024/25 season: Onana; Dalot, De Ligt, Martinez, Shaw; Neves, Mainoo, Fernandes; Garnacho, Osimhen, Amad
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Olivia Martin is a dedicated sports journalist based in the UK. With a passion for various athletic disciplines, she covers everything from major league championships to local sports events, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis.