Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has a clearer path to pursue a move for Crysencio Summerville after the winger’s World Cup heartbreak. The West Ham star missed in the penalty shootout as the Netherlands lost to Morocco in the round of 32.
Summerville's World Cup Impact and Transfer Speculation
The 24-year-old is one of several players in the Hammers’ squad linked with a move away this summer following the club’s relegation to the Championship. United are monitoring Summerville’s situation and also hold an interest in his club team-mate Mateus Fernandes.
The start of the summer window has largely revolved around United bolstering their central midfield options. Carrick’s side struck an early deal for Brazilian midfielder Ederson and are looking to bring in more signings in that area.
United's Left-Wing Targets and Squad Plans
However, the United boss will want to improve his squad in more than one position as the Reds prepare for a return to the Champions League. Summerville is among the names on United’s shortlist of left-wing targets.
The forward has been focused on the World Cup so far this summer, having forced his way into manager Ronald Koeman’s plans. He only made his international debut earlier this month but featured in all four of the Netherlands’ tournament matches, scoring twice and providing two assists.
Competition and Valuation
Summerville’s displays on the world stage have increased the speculation surrounding his future. United reportedly face competition from Paris Saint-Germain and several other sides for his signature.
West Ham have insisted they do not need to cash in on their star players, despite dropping out of the top flight. The former Leeds United winger has three years left on his current deal and is claimed to be valued at £50 million by the Hammers.
Opportunity After World Cup Exit
Summerville’s painful World Cup penalty miss could ultimately allow United to push forward with a deal. While some transfers have been completed during the major tournament, the West Ham star will now be able to solely focus on his future, rather than potential World Cup glory.
The left flank is an area of the team that Carrick could look to address in the transfer window. The manager deployed Patrick Dorgu in a more advanced role at the start of his reign before Matheus Cunha made the spot his own. However, the Brazilian’s versatility also enables him to occupy several roles in United's attack.
Marcus Rashford's Future and Premier League Experience
The uncertainty over Marcus Rashford’s future could also factor into any plans for Summerville. The England international impressed during his Barcelona loan spell and could still return to the United squad after the Catalan club opted not to trigger their buy option.
Should United decide to refresh their wide options, the Netherlands’ defeat allows the club to step up their pursuit of Summerville. The Reds demonstrated the importance placed on Premier League experience through their moves for Bryan Mbeumo and Cunha last summer.
The pair both enjoyed successful first seasons at Old Trafford and United would hope that Summerville could continue that trend. The Dutchman has already experienced a whirlwind summer after leaving his mark at the World Cup, but seeing his tournament come to an end could make United’s next steps to sign him more straightforward.
