As the summer transfer window nears its close, Manchester United face a critical final week to address lingering gaps in their squad. Despite investing heavily in attacking reinforcements, the Red Devils remain winless and goalless in the Premier League, raising concerns beyond the forward line. With limited funds and time, the club must now make strategic decisions to fix issues in goal, midfield, and squad depth before the window slams shut.
Attack Upgraded, But at a Cost
Manchester United’s primary focus this summer has been to sharpen their attacking edge. New signings Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško were brought in to improve a forward line that lacked cutting power last season. Although goals remain elusive so far, there have been flashes of promise in the final third.
However, the heavy investment up front has come at the expense of other departments. With just days remaining in the transfer window, attention is turning to areas still in need of reinforcements.
Goalkeeping Concerns Resurface
A shaky display from Altay Bayındır in the recent loss to Arsenal has once again spotlighted United’s goalkeeping woes. The Turkish international’s costly mistake proved decisive, and with André Onana still struggling to find consistent form and Tom Heaton aging, the lack of a reliable backup is increasingly apparent.
Potential targets include:
- Gianluigi Donnarumma – Available after a fallout with PSG, though Manchester City are also in the race.
- Diogo Costa – The Porto shot-stopper is attracting attention after a bid from Galatasaray.
- Senne Lammens – The young Royal Antwerp keeper could be a smart long-term option.
Bringing in a dependable goalkeeper could provide manager Rúben Amorim with the stability he desperately needs between the posts.
Midfield Depth Still a Major Issue
While United’s attack has been reinforced, their midfield remains thin and inconsistent. Amorim is eager to add dynamism alongside Bruno Fernandes, but financial constraints have complicated matters.
Carlos Baleba of Brighton was high on the club’s radar, but his steep price tag appears to have cooled interest. Meanwhile, Morten Hjulmand, a player Amorim knows well from his Sporting CP days, has emerged as a realistic target. Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace is also admired, though likely beyond United’s current budget.
Without bolstering the midfield, United risk being outworked and outmaneuvered in key matches—a concern that could haunt them as the season unfolds.
Outgoings Hold the Key to Further Business
United’s ability to sign more players depends on clearing out those who are surplus to requirements. So far, only Marcus Rashford has left, securing a loan move to Barcelona. Four other wantaway stars—Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia—remain on the books.
Here’s the latest on potential exits:
- Garnacho is pushing for a move to Chelsea after turning down Bayern Munich.
- Sancho was close to Roma but failed to agree personal terms.
- Malacia is drawing interest from Beşiktaş.
- Antony hopes for a return to Real Betis, where he previously impressed on loan.
- Rasmus Højlund, initially determined to fight for his place, is now expected to depart for either Milan or Napoli following Šeško’s arrival.
If United can move quickly to finalize these outgoings, they could reinvest and strengthen critical positions before the deadline hits.
