Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen to shake up his Manchester United ranks this summer, and his side could look very different when the start of the 2024/25 campaign arrives. The INEOS owner is keen to bolster his at both ends of the pitch, with major sales anticipated to fund those arrivals. Express Sport takes a look at how the Red Devils could line up next season…
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Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
After a slow start to the campaign, Onana has now found his feet at Old Trafford and his impressive performances are somewhat going under the radar. The ex-Inter Milan shot-stopper is unlikely to be replaced by United, with Altay Bayindir providing cover for the Cameroonian.
Defence: Diogo Dalot, Tosin Adarabioyo, Jarred Branthwaite, Luke Shaw
Wholesale changes are planned in defence over the summer. With Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane both expected to be offloaded, at least two central defenders are likely to replace the ageing duo and breathe a youthful lease of life into the club.
Everton star Branthwaite has been heavily linked with a move to the Red Devils, and Fulham’s Adarabioyo is also said to be a target. The 26-year-old is set to become a free agent this summer and securing his signature would be a commendable piece of business by Ratcliffe, amid strong interest from Tottenham.
Midfield: Kobbie Mainoo, Ross Barkley, Bruno Fernandes
Barkley has managed to get his career back on track at Luton Town, and his performances do not appear to have gone unnoticed. The ex-Chelsea star has scored four and assisted four in 25 league appearances so far this season, looking to have improved significantly by playing regularly – and United are said to be monitoring his situation closely as a result.
Forwards: Michael Olise, Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford
United are keen to acquire the services of a second-choice striker over the summer to play second fiddle to Hojlund. However, acquiring a top-quality right-winger is their main priority in the final third, with Jadon Sancho and Antony both failing to meet the mark at the Theatre of Dreams. Crystal Palace ace Olise has been linked with a move to United previously and has been touted as Ratcliffe’s favoured first signing, though Chelsea and Manchester City are also in the race to sign the versatile French prospect.
