Manchester United’s Transfer Focus
Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Brentford striker Igor Thiago before the summer transfer window closes. This comes as the club looks to potentially replace Joshua Zirkzee, who joined United two years ago.
Zirkzee, who arrived from Bologna in a deal, has scored nine goals in 75 appearances for the club. He featured sparingly following Michael Carrick’s arrival as manager, and a move away this summer appears likely. Clubs in Italy are reportedly interested in bringing Zirkzee back to Serie A, with Juventus considered frontrunners for a season-long loan with an option for a permanent transfer next summer. United, however, would prefer a permanent sale.
Thiago, a Brazil international, scored 22 goals in 38 league appearances last season, a performance that reportedly earned him a call-up to Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad. Despite signing a new contract with Brentford in February that extends until 2031, United have made enquiries to understand the player’s situation. Reports indicate that getting Thiago out of Brentford this summer could be challenging, as the club is determined to keep him.
Midfield and Defensive Targets
United are also keeping tabs on other potential signings. The club has already bolstered its midfield with the additions of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. They are still keen to add another central midfielder, with Carlos Baleba and Manu Kone among the names being considered. Tielemans and fellow Belgian Senne Lammens have both arrived at Carrington to begin pre-season training after their national team’s exit from the World Cup quarter-finals.
In defence, United may look to make a bid for Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall. Hall is reportedly unsettled at Newcastle and is considered a long-term replacement for Luke Shaw. The club is looking to strengthen its options in the left-back position.
Other names linked with United include Dusan Vlahovic, who left Juventus on a free transfer. The Serbia international scored ten goals for Juventus last season and has reportedly received an offer from Turkish side Besiktas. United are also monitoring Ollie Watkins’ situation at Aston Villa, with the Englishman also attracting interest from Turkey. Additionally, reports from Italy suggest United have been offered the chance to sign Rafael Leao this summer, with AC Milan reportedly seeking a price of €60 million.
Squad Updates and Outgoings
In terms of goalkeepers, Karl Darlow has joined from Leeds United to serve as a back-up for Senne Lammens. Orlando Gill, a Paraguay international goalkeeper, has also drawn interest from United, with his agent confirming enquiries from English and German clubs. The agent stated that a sale is close and that they are in the negotiation phase.
Marcus Rashford has officially said his goodbyes to Barcelona on social media, expressing gratitude for his time at the club. He shared a picture of one of his shirts and himself playing for Barcelona, along with a message thanking the club and its supporters. Barcelona’s official account responded, stating he would always be ‘one of us’. Rashford’s social media post received replies from Barcelona stars including Ferran Torres, Fermin Lopez, and Raphinha.
Another departure sees Tyler Fredricson leave Manchester United after 11 years. He posted an emotional message on Instagram, thanking coaches, players, staff, and fans for their support. Several current and former teammates, including Patrick Dorgu, Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Kobbie Mainoo, Tyler Fletcher, Ethan Wheatley, Radek Vitek, Jack Fletcher, Kit Margetson, and Rhys Bennett, wished him well. Jadon Sancho, who left United at the end of his contract in June, has been training at Flixton FC to maintain his fitness as he searches for a new club.
United’s academy also saw news with Jacey Carrick, son of manager Michael Carrick, signing a two-year scholarship deal and joining Tongue Tied Management, the same agency as his father. Jacey plays alongside Kai Rooney and has travelled to Germany with the academy squad. Meanwhile, Club Brugge star Nicolo Tresoldi, who scored 23 goals and made nine assists in his debut season, is reportedly being eyed by both Manchester United and Chelsea, despite agreeing to continue with the Belgian club.
The club is preparing for the new 2026/27 season under Michael Carrick, with the team set to face Atletico Madrid in a friendly on Saturday.
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Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
