Transfer Centre

Manchester United 'could sign five new players this summer'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 10 April 2023

Manchester United could sign five new players during this summer's transfer window, including a centre-forward and central midfielder, according to a report.

Manchester United could reportedly bring five new players to Old Trafford during this summer's transfer window.

The size of the club's budget for the upcoming market is currently unclear due to the ownership situation, with the Glazer family in talks over a sale.

However, Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag is expected to be backed during the summer window, having proved himself during his first campaign with the 20-time English champions.

According to the Daily Mail, Man United could sign five new players this summer, with Ten Hag keen to bring in a striker, midfielder, centre-back, right-back and a goalkeeper.

The acquisition of a centre-forward is the club's leading priority, as Cristiano Ronaldo's departure at the end of last year has left them short in that area of the field, and it has been claimed that Wout Weghorst will not be joining on a permanent basis from Burnley.

Harry Kane celebrates scoring for England on March 23, 2023 © Reuters

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane is said to be Man United's leading target in the final third of the field, although it remains to be seen whether Spurs are prepared to let the England captain leave.

Napoli's Victor Osimhen and Eintracht Frankfurt's Randal Kolo Muani have also been mentioned as possible incomings for the club during the summer market.

Man United also allegedly want a central midfielder, with Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham, West Ham United's Declan Rice and Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong believed to be among their targets.

Deals for any of the trio are likely to cost in the region of £100m, though, which could prove out of reach if Kane or Osimhen arrive, as the duo would also command fees of at least £100m.

Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham pictured on February 4, 2023 © Reuters

A centre-back could also arrive, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof potentially leaving this summer in search of regular first-team action.

Meanwhile, it is believed that a new right-back will be targeted, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka still likely to leave at the end of the season despite impressing since December.

Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong appears to be Man United's leading target in that area of the field, although Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also being linked with his services.

Meanwhile, a new goalkeeper could also arrive, as Jack Butland is set to return to parent club Crystal Palace this summer, while Tom Heaton only has a deal until the end of June.

David de Gea is also out of contract this summer but is widely expected to sign a new deal in the near future, with the Spaniard likely to again be number one at Old Trafford next season.