Manchester United's Summer Transfer Strategy: Five Stars Set for Exit as Onana Eyes Return
Manchester United are firmly focused on securing Champions League qualification under interim manager Michael Carrick, but the club is already laying the groundwork for a potentially transformative summer transfer window. With the team sitting fourth in the Premier League, three points ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool, Sunday's clash against Crystal Palace offers another opportunity to solidify their top-four position. United remain unbeaten since Carrick took charge, and victories in upcoming matches against direct rivals could provide a crucial buffer in the race for European football.
Financial Boost and Transfer Targets
Qualifying for the Champions League would significantly enhance Manchester United's ability to attract top-tier talent in the transfer market. The club invested over £200 million last summer on players who have become regular starters under Carrick and his predecessor Ruben Amorim, yet further reinforcements are anticipated. A key challenge will be generating additional funds, beyond the wage savings expected when high-earner Casemiro departs upon the expiry of his contract.
Five Players on the Transfer List
According to reports, Manchester United could raise as much as £170 million by selling five first-team stars. This financial injection would enable the club to pursue Nottingham Forest duo Elliot Anderson and Morgan Gibbs-White, who may be available for the right price even if Forest avoid relegation. Two of the potential sales involve players currently on loan: Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund could fetch around £64 million combined if Barcelona and Napoli exercise purchase options, though Barcelona are reportedly seeking a discount on their £26 million agreement for Rashford.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is also among those who could depart, with Saudi Arabian clubs showing interest. Reports suggest non-Premier League teams could secure the midfielder for £56.8 million. Additionally, sales of Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, based on January reports and Transfermarkt valuations, could bring in another £48 million, collectively funding a double raid on Nottingham Forest.
Andre Onana's Desire to Return
In other news, goalkeeper Andre Onana is keen to return to Manchester United and fight for his starting position, according to sources. The Cameroon international is currently on a season-long loan at Turkish club Trabzonspor but is not expected to remain there beyond the summer. Onana was initially signed as first-choice goalkeeper under Erik ten Hag but was loaned out after a series of high-profile errors last season.
United moved quickly to sign Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp just days before Onana's departure, and the new keeper has impressed Carrick in recent weeks. "Senne is quite quiet and unassuming at times, but he's got a real steel," Carrick said of the Belgian stopper after Monday's win at Everton. "The jump he made to come here is huge. To take it like he has done and just get on with things speaks volumes about his personality."
Looking Ahead
As Manchester United navigate the final stretch of the season, the club's transfer plans are taking shape. The potential sale of five players could provide the financial flexibility needed to strengthen the squad, while Onana's anticipated return adds depth to the goalkeeping department. With Champions League qualification within reach, the summer window promises to be a pivotal moment in the club's ongoing rebuild under Carrick's leadership.
