Anthony Martial, Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans to leave the Club this summer with transfer replacement for Casemiro in sight

Manchester United’s current strategy in the transfer market is notably conservative, having designated only four players as available for sale. This implies that the majority of their squad remains accessible to potential buyers as the new season approaches.

Over the summer, United has the opportunity to sign just four players: Andre Onana, Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund. These players are anticipated to be integral to United’s strongest starting eleven in the upcoming season, reflecting their importance to the team’s core strategy.

During this transfer window, United has decided to bolster their defense by adding two new center backs. This decision comes in light of Raphael Varane’s departure following the expiration of his contract and Jonny Evans’ contract also reaching its conclusion this month. Additionally, there is a pressing need for a new playmaker and a forward to enhance the squad’s attacking options.The departure of Tony Martial at the end of his contract has left Rasmus Hojlund as the sole natural center forward. Concurrently, Casemiro is widely expected to leave Old Trafford this summer after a less-than-impressive second season. United, therefore, must reinforce their squad significantly, and if everything aligns perfectly, they could integrate three new players into the team.

Should Erik ten Hag remain at the helm, Andre Onana is set to retain his position as the first-choice goalkeeper. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is currently assessing the end-of-season outcomes with his close associates before making any decisions regarding the Dutch manager’s future.Last season saw Diogo Dalot emerge as one of United’s most dependable players. Initially stepping in as a left back due to long-term injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, Dalot has now returned to his natural right-back position. In the heart of the defense, Lisandro Martinez is expected to be a mainstay, potentially partnering with one of the new center-back signings. United is closely monitoring Edmond Tapsoba from Bayer Leverkusen and Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton as potential additions.

At 21 years old, Jarrad Branthwaite has already gained Premier League experience and represents a long-term investment for United. Everton, despite their financial troubles, will not sell him cheaply but might be persuaded for the right price. Although the transfer fee would be substantial, the long-term benefits could justify the investment.Luke Shaw, who will turn 29 next month, remains the team’s premier left back. Tyrell Malacia is set to return after missing much of the previous season due to complications from knee surgery. With Dalot also available as a left-back option, United is well-covered in that defensive area.

Kobbie Mainoo, who emerged as one of United’s standout performers last season, is expected to secure a starting position despite being only 19 years old in April. His new midfield partner might be financed through the funds generated from Casemiro’s potential sale.United is also tracking Amadou Onana from Everton, a player who has attracted interest from Arsenal as well. With Sofyan Amrabat returning to Fiorentina after his loan spell, United’s need for additional defensive midfielders is pressing.

Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise has also been linked with a move to United. Although he is expected to participate in the Olympics with the French national team, his absence from the Euro 2024 squad provides United with ample time to negotiate a deal. Valued at approximately £60 million, similar to Branthwaite, Olise could be a significant acquisition.Should Bruno Fernandes remain at the club, he would continue to fulfill his role as the attacking midfielder. Although there are rumors of his potential departure if a suitable offer arises, Fernandes has expressed his desire to stay at Old Trafford.Manchester United’s current transfer strategy reflects a conservative yet targeted approach, emphasizing both retention and strategic acquisitions to reinforce their squad. Here is a detailed breakdown of their plan:

1. **Players Designated for Sale**: United has identified only four players as available for sale, suggesting a focus on retaining the core squad while remaining open to offers for most players.

2. **Key Signings**:
– **Andre Onana**: Expected to remain the first-choice goalkeeper under Erik ten Hag.
– **Kobbie Mainoo**: A standout performer anticipated to secure a starting midfield position.
– **Alejandro Garnacho**: Set to be a crucial part of the attacking line.
– **Rasmus Hojlund**: The sole natural center forward following Tony Martial’s departure.

3. **Defensive Reinforcements**:
– **New Center Backs**: With Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans leaving, United plans to bring in two new central defenders. Targets include:
– **Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen)**.
– **Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton)**: At 21, he offers Premier League experience and long-term potential. Despite Everton’s financial issues, his transfer fee would be considerable.

4. **Midfield and Forward Enhancements**:
– **Casemiro’s Departure**: Expected to leave, prompting the need for a new defensive midfielder.
– **Potential Midfield Signings**:
– **Amadou Onana (Everton)**: Monitored by United and also attracting interest from Arsenal.
– **Michael Olise (Crystal Palace)**: Linked with a move; valued at around £60 million.

5. **Squad Depth**:
– **Defensive Coverage**: Diogo Dalot has proven versatile, capable of playing both left and right back. Luke Shaw remains the first-choice left back, with Tyrell Malacia returning from injury.
– **Bruno Fernandes**: Likely to continue as the main attacking midfielder, barring any substantial offers leading to his departure.

6. **Youth Integration and Long-term Investments**:
– **Kobbie Mainoo and Jarrad Branthwaite**: Represent investments in youth with potential long-term benefits.
– **Strategic Financial Management**: Player sales, such as Casemiro’s, are expected to fund new acquisitions.

7. **Managerial Stability**: Erik ten Hag’s future is being reviewed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, but if he remains, Onana and other signings will be pivotal to his plans.

Overall, Manchester United’s strategy focuses on consolidating their current squad while making strategic additions to key areas. The blend of experienced and young talents, alongside a cautious yet ambitious transfer approach, aims to restore United’s competitive edge in the Premier League.

With Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund poised to lead the attacking front, Manchester United’s starting eleven appears to have the potential to compete for a top-four finish in the Premier League. The strategic additions and careful management of current players underscore United’s ambition to regain their status as one of the top teams in English football.