Manchester United are prioritising defensive reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window, with four players potentially facing the axe, as manager Michael Carrick comes under increasing pressure to improve results.
The Red Devils' winless streak stretched to six matches across all competitions after Sunday's 1-1 draw at Leeds United. Despite the encouraging performance at Elland Road, Carrick described the display as a "fresh start" before a challenging run of fixtures, starting with Wednesday's trip to Como in the Champions League.
That game will be followed by Premier League meetings with Bournemouth, Chelsea, Aston Villa and Liverpool. United currently sit 13th after seven matches, closer to the relegation zone than the Champions League positions.
Defensive overhaul planned
According to Sky Sports, United are making centre-backs and left-backs a priority as part of their squad overhaul, having strengthened their midfield during the summer and their attacking options 12 months prior.
There was considerable frustration over the summer when United failed to secure an alternative for Luke Shaw, so a left-back firmly features on their wishlist. United had targeted Lewis Hall, but Newcastle refused to sanction a sale before tying the full-back down to a lengthy new deal, making him virtually unattainable.
United are equally focused on bolstering their centre-back options. The future of Lisandro Martinez, whose contract expires next summer, is in serious doubt following his recent outburst, during which he criticised director of football Jason Wilcox regarding the club's summer recruitment activity. The Argentine later apologised and featured against Leeds.
Contract situations and injury concerns
Harry Maguire, aged 33, is also entering the final months of his deal, while Matthijs de Ligt has endured injury difficulties, though he has returned to fitness following back surgery.
Some would suggest that United ought to bolster their attacking options as well, both centrally and on the flanks. However, at present, shoring up the defence seems to be the club's main priority.
Carrick told improvement is needed
Gary Neville believes Carrick cannot afford for United to remain stuck in mid-table come January. Neville maintains that Carrick deserves additional time in his first full campaign as United manager, but insists the team must show improvement, and quickly.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Neville stated: "Fifth is a must for Michael Carrick to continue to grow and Manchester United continue to grow with investment."
"If they're 13th in January, he's got a problem because then you are what you are. Whereas I think it's still early enough, seven points from seven games, to say, 'Okay, still early in the season'. You can't say that after 15 games."
"It has to change in the next few weeks. Bournemouth is really important and Chelsea away, and how he manages the games in between that."
