Manchester United's summer transfer activity is about to intensify significantly as the club prepares to finalise its first deal of the off-season. However, there will be no respite for the Red Devils, with a host of additional transfers on the horizon.
Rashford Talks Scheduled for This Week
In what seems like an endless series of updates regarding Marcus Rashford, United are bracing for discussions about the forward's future. According to the Daily Mail, a meeting is scheduled this week between the England winger and the club to bring clarity to his next move.
Both Rashford and Barcelona manager Hansi Flick are keen for him to remain at Camp Nou following a successful loan spell, during which he netted 14 goals and provided 14 assists for the Catalan club. It has long been known that Barcelona must pay a £26 million fee to sign the England international permanently. Earlier this year, reports indicated that Barcelona attempted to negotiate a lower fee, but United are not interested in reducing the price.
It was also recently reported that Barcelona would prioritise a second season-long loan before making the move permanent next summer. However, United have no interest in loaning the player again and are prioritising a sale if Rashford departs. The 28-year-old was once a beloved figure at Old Trafford before falling out of favour under managers like Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim. Current boss Michael Carrick is reportedly open to the player returning, though Rashford's dream scenario is to sign a long-term deal at Camp Nou.
This week's discussions should provide greater clarity, including the possibility of Rashford moving elsewhere. Jose Mourinho is reportedly hoping to sign the player if he takes over as Real Madrid manager, though the club's ongoing elections are delaying that rumoured appointment.
Six More Transfers Planned
Rashford's sale is reportedly just one of seven transfers United have planned as part of a comprehensive overhaul this summer. Another is the addition of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who is believed to be on the verge of signing in a deal worth around £40 million. The i Paper reports that United have compiled a shortlist of midfield targets for this summer. This would see any two of Mateus Fernandes, Carlos Baleba, or Sandro Tonali sign in addition to Ederson, who has reportedly already agreed personal terms.
Carrick's side appear to have little faith in recruiting the likes of Elliot Anderson or Adam Wharton, despite recent rumours. Instead, someone like Fernandes would be more attainable in light of West Ham's relegation, while Tonali may be within reach as Newcastle desperately seek funds after failing to qualify for Europe. Baleba was linked with United last summer before the club balked at Brighton's reported £100 million valuation. It is believed that figure has come down considerably since then, but it remains to be seen if United retain interest following a stop-start season on the south coast.
As for which players could be sold to finance these moves, The i Paper mentions Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee, and Andre Onana as three who could raise significant capital. This is in addition to the sale of Rashford, whether to Barcelona or another suitor. It is reported that United are willing to cut ties with Ugarte before his price falls further, having fallen short of justifying his £50 million price tag. Zirkzee was reportedly eyeing the exit door earlier in the year when Roma expressed interest, though he has since committed to the project at Old Trafford. Casemiro's exit alone will free up around £16 million per year as United look to supplement his contributions from midfield. It may take more than one midfield signing to fully cover the void he is set to leave this summer.
