Manchester United are tentatively targeting four key signings next summer.
United are looking to strengthen at full-back, centre-back, central midfield and in attack, with outgoings expected in most departments.
Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive pair Jeremie Frimpong and Edmond Tapsoba were of interest in the summer when United considered approaches.
United are also keeping tabs on Brighton striker Evan Ferguson, who grabbed his first Premier League hat-trick against Newcastle United earlier this month. The 18-year-old signed a new contract until 2028 earlier this year to protect his market value and sources believe a move for Ferguson next year is possible.
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Although United have invested heavily in £72million Rasmus Hojlund, the Ten Hag have long wanted another forward and are uncertain about the future of several attackers.
Mason Greenwood will not play again for United, Antony is on leave amid allegations from three women that he abused them, Amad is recovering from a knee injury while Facundo Pellistri has made a competitive start for United since he joined the club from Penarol in October 2020. Jadon Sancho’s future is in doubt after he disparaged manager Erik ten Hag through a post on social media.
United have an option to buy midfielder Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina for €25 million when his loan ends this season. Amrabat’s arrival likely ends Scott McTominay’s United career and the club are ready to sell the Scot in the summer.
West Ham United have had separate bids of £30m rejected for McTominay and Harry Maguire, both set to leave next year unless their playing prospects suddenly improve.
Although United have scored seven goals in four Premier League games and three centre-halves have gone down with injury, Maguire is unlikely to start against Brighton at Old Trafford on Saturday.
United could release Anthony Martial if his stagnation continues. Martial turned 28 in December and has scored 17 goals for United in the last three years. The Frenchman is out of contract next year and United must decide whether to trigger a one-year extension.
Centre-back Tapsoba, 24, is a Burkina Faso international and United are looking to recruit an athletic defender amid Raphael Varane’s departure. Victor Lindelof is also out of contract next year but United have the option to extend his deal.
Ten Hag is a big admirer of Netherlands right-back Frimpong, 22, but United have passed up a move for the former City academy player due to the encouraging form of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Frimpong, 22, is due to enter the final year of his contract in July and United are monitoring potential targets whose deals expire in 2025.
Former Aston Villa winger Anwar El Ghazi was offered to United by his agent but the club rejected the offer.