Manchester United 'prepared to sell five defenders this summer'

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to sell five defenders this summer, with new head coach Erik ten Hag keen to put his mark on the squad.

The Red Devils are believed to be planning to make five signings this summer, with Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong and Ajax's Antony leading targets, in addition to Christian Eriksen.

A new goalkeeper could also arrive, with Dean Henderson preparing to depart, while a central defender is expected to make the move to Old Trafford before the end of the transfer window.

There will also be outgoings before the end of the market, and according to the Manchester Evening News, five defenders could depart in the current market.

The report claims that Phil Jones, Eric Bailly, Axel Tuanzebe and Teden Mengi could leave, while Victor Lindelof could yet be surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.

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Jones only made five appearances in all competitions last season; the 30-year-old still has another year left to run on his deal, though, and his large wage packet will make it difficult for clubs to afford him.

Bailly only played seven times in all competitions last term, meanwhile, and the Ivory Coast international is said to be keen to depart in search of regular action.

Lindelof featured on 35 occasions in all competitions in 2021-22, but the Sweden international could be relegated to fourth-choice centre-back if another player arrives in that area of the field this summer.

Tuanzebe struggled during loan spells at Aston Villa and Napoli last term, meanwhile, and he could potentially depart on a permanent basis in the current market.

Mengi spent the second half of last season on loan at Birmingham City, and the 20-year-old could move on loan rather than depart on a long-term basis.

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Meanwhile, according to The Sun, the 20-time English champions are willing to sell Brandon Williams during this summer's transfer window.

The 21-year-old spent the 2021-22 campaign on loan at Norwich City, making 28 appearances in all competitions, including 25 outings in the Premier League.

Williams still has more than two years left to run on his contract at Old Trafford but is allegedly not in the plans of new head coach Ten Hag moving forward.

Man United would allegedly consider offers in the region of £10m for the defender, who is open to leaving the 20-time English champions in search of regular action.

Williams has made 50 appearances for Man United in all competitions, contributing one goal and three assists in the process, and he is expected to link up with the club for pre-season training next week.