Manchester United's return to the Champions League means they need squad members capable of handling two elite competitions per week. Casemiro's departure has been announced, and he will not be the only one leaving. Tyrell Malacia, who has made only 27 league appearances, will not be missed when his contract expires in June. Joshua Zirkzee has also failed to live up to expectations, scoring just five goals in 54 league appearances, and there is no obvious role for him.
Manuel Ugarte's £50m price tag has weighed heavily on him, and he has never got up to speed in England. Behind Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo, his cameos have not suggested he could be a long-term replacement. Altay Bayindir always looked an unlikely understudy as second-choice goalkeeper, and a return to Turkey seems likely. Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Rasmus Højlund have no future at Old Trafford, while Mason Mount and Matthijs de Ligt are in a grey area.
The list of players who cannot leave has grown since last summer. Senne Lammens, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha joined and impressed immediately, and Benjamin Sesko has become integral. Bruno Fernandes was at his best, and his experience alongside Harry Maguire is key. Luke Shaw's fitness has been a great boost, and Tom Heaton's homegrown qualification is vital. Amad Diallo, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu have made progress, and a fit Lisandro Martínez is another valuable asset.
Central midfield will be the focus of transfer business. Elliot Anderson is high on the agenda, but Manchester City are favourites to acquire him. Ederson, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton are also in contention. A centre-back should be sought, with Murillo and Micky van de Ven as sensible options. Full-back areas may be refreshed, with West Ham's El Hadji Malick Diouf a potential target. Another goalkeeper may be considered, but Radek Vitek could return as No 2. Finding a forward is ideal, with Zirkzee not good enough.
