According to sources, Manchester United wants to bring in more players for Erik ten Hag, with a right-back, midfielder, and forward on the club’s want list. The Red Devils have gradually gained ground on their rivals after a poor start to the season that saw them lose back-to-back Premier League games to Brighton and Brentford before going on to win four consecutive.
However, there is an understanding that United will need to continue recruiting wisely if they are to compete with the likes of Manchester City, which is why the board and Ten Hag are already discussing new additions.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the Dutchman’s rebuild will enter a second phase in January, with the club seeking reinforcements in three important areas.
With Aaron Wan-future Bissaka’s uncertain, more competition and cover at right-back is one of the top items on the list.
The former Crystal Palace man has been trying to challenge Diogo Dalot this season, but for one reason or another, the £50 million 2019 addition has put minimal pressure on him.
Wan-Bissaka is poised to go after West Ham and Crystal Palace failed with late summer approaches.
If United has more time to locate a replacement, it is believed that they would be willing to let their tough-tackling full-back leave for the right price.
United is already well-stocked in midfield thanks to the additions of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro, although Ten Hag is said to be open to signing another technical player.
This could indicate more departures, with Donny van de Beek the most likely to leave owing to a lack of playing time.
Manchester United’s priority in the attack remains a new No 9, especially with Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract coming to an end.
Ronaldo’s contract expires next summer, but United has the option to extend it for another year.
Having pressed for a summer transfer that never materialized, Ten Hag is now willing to let the Portuguese legend go.
Due to a dearth of appealing choices on the market, United had to abandon ambitions to bring in a new center-forward in the final days of the transfer season.
In recent weeks, Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney have been linked with moves to Old Trafford, although United’s targets are not yet known.
According to reports, Ten Hag could be given up to £100 million to spend on new faces in January, despite spending over £200 million on new recruits this summer.
Departures could help the club’s finances, especially if Ronaldo leaves, who is currently receiving a sizable salary.
The World Cup’s impact should also not be understated, given that players may return from Qatar injured.
