United’s Transfer Window Priorities
Manchester United are actively working to strengthen Michael Carrick's squad during the summer transfer window. A deal for Brazil midfielder Ederson is already in place, but further additions have been elusive. The club is still pursuing a move for Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and plans to sign a left-sided player, a back-up goalkeeper, and another forward.
Midfield Reinforcements Depend on Ugarte’s Future
According to sources, United may sign another midfielder even if they land Fernandes, but this hinges on finding a buyer for Manuel Ugarte. Ugarte has had a subpar World Cup, complicating his sale. United are reluctant to force him out, given he is two years into a five-year contract with a book value of around £30 million. If they can sell him or arrange a loan with an obligation to buy, they intend to add a third midfielder this summer.
Carlos Baleba Remains a Target
Carlos Baleba is still on United’s list, though interest has quietened. Unlike other midfield targets, United face little competition for him. The recruitment team admires him, but Brighton’s £100 million valuation from 2025 remains a hurdle. The longer United go without signing a top-level midfielder, the more likely Baleba could become a realistic option.
Defensive Plans: Left-Back but No Centre-Back
United may sign a left-back, though it’s not guaranteed, but no centre-back addition is expected. They desire a left-sided player, which could be a winger rather than a left-back, with Patrick Dorgu dropping back. In central defence, the club already has five senior centre-backs: Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, and Ayden Heaven. Carrying six is financially unviable. Fitness concerns exist for Maguire, Martinez, and De Ligt, but there is hope that De Ligt’s back surgery resolves his issues.
Victor Osimhen Not a Target
Despite past links, United are not pursuing Victor Osimhen. The 27-year-old has excelled at Galatasaray, but his high fee and wages, boosted by Turkish tax breaks, make a deal unlikely. United believe Benjamin Sesko is their long-term No. 9.
Barcelona’s Interest in Sesko Dismissed
Reports in Spain suggest Barcelona are interested in Sesko as a Robert Lewandowski replacement, but their top target is Julian Alvarez. United have received no offer from Barcelona for Sesko and are not taking the links seriously. Frustration over Barcelona’s approach for Marcus Rashford has soured relations, making United reluctant to deal with them.
Expected Number of Signings
United’s transfer activity will depend on market developments, sales, and fees. The club expects to sign at least a second midfielder, and a third if Ugarte leaves. They will also target a left-sided player (likely a left-back or left-winger), a back-up goalkeeper for Senne Lammens, and a forward to support Sesko, though the latter may depend on Joshua Zirkzee’s future.
