United Continue Squad Reshuffle as Collyer Nears Championship Switch
Manchester United’s busy summer transfer window shows no signs of slowing down—not just with big-name arrivals, but also with a growing list of departures. The latest name expected to head for the exit, albeit temporarily, is young midfielder Toby Collyer, who is on the verge of joining West Bromwich Albion on a season-long loan.
Multiple outlets, including The Athletic and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, confirm that negotiations are in advanced stages, with Collyer favoring a move to the Hawthorns over other Championship suitors.
⚽ Young Midfielder Chooses West Brom for Key First-Team Experience
Despite interest from several second-tier clubs, the 21-year-old has reportedly chosen West Brom due to the influence of new boss Ryan Mason and the opportunity for regular senior football. Romano emphasized that the deal will not include a buy option, with Manchester United still viewing Collyer as a key part of their long-term plans.
Man United trust him for the future, West Brom are set to win the race after Hull City also made a strong push in recent weeks.
Romano wrote on X.
Collyer’s development has been closely monitored by United’s coaching staff, and this move is seen as a crucial step in helping him transition from youth to senior football.
💰 Summer Spending Tops £200M, but United Still Active
United have already made headlines with high-profile additions this summer, splashing over £200 million on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Šeško, and teenage sensation Diego León. Yet, despite the spending spree, the Red Devils remain in the market for a new defensive midfielder and goalkeeper before the transfer window closes on September 1.
In order to balance the books and create space in the squad, manager Rúben Amorim is reportedly open to offloading several players, including Jadon Sancho, Antony, Tyrell Malacia, and Alejandro Garnacho. Meanwhile, younger talents like Collyer are being sent on loan to gain valuable playing time and experience.
🧠 Gary Neville Sets Realistic Expectations for United’s Season
Former United captain and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville offered a sobering assessment of United’s 2025/26 prospects. Speaking on Sky, Neville admitted that while the signings were promising, expectations should be tempered.
“Top six would be a healthy finish, Without Europe, they might have a better chance, but seventh or eighth feels realistic right now.
Gary Neville
He praised the club’s summer acquisitions, particularly Mbeumo and Cunha, for their Premier League experience, but stressed that chemistry and goal output will be crucial.
If those three forwards can give United 35–40 goals, that gives them a fighting chance. But we can’t take that for granted anymore at this club.
Gary Neville
Neville noted that being out of European competition could actually be a hidden blessing for United, giving the squad more rest, more training time, and less travel fatigue.
📅 A Crucial Start Ahead
With a new-look forward line and a reshaped squad still under construction, the pressure is on for Amorim to deliver early results. Tough fixtures await, and United will be hoping their youthful talents—both at Old Trafford and out on loan—can rise to the occasion and help spark a return to Champions League football.
