DEAL CLOSE: Transfer expert confirmed Man United set to announce the signing of £50m Star in the next few hours, medical and everything to be done today – Here we go

Manchester United’s management has significant work ahead of them in the transfer market if they want to ensure the team is competitive at the highest level in the upcoming season.

The season officially kicks off for Erik ten Hag and his squad just six days before their Premier League opener against Fulham, with a high-stakes clash against Manchester City in the Community Shield Final this Saturday.

With Rasmus Hojlund unavailable, Joshua Zirkzee might step in. However, there are concerns within the club regarding Zirkzee’s inexperience in the Premier League. Because of this, it’s likely that Zirkzee will be gradually introduced to the team rather than being thrust into a starting position immediately.

United’s transfer activity has been limited this summer, with their only other signing, Leny Yoro, sidelined due to a fractured metatarsal. This injury leaves the team with a decision to make at the back, where Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, or Victor Lindelof may be called upon to partner with Lisandro Martinez in defense.

Recent reports have surfaced suggesting that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his associates are making a late attempt to intercept AC Milan’s pursuit of Youssouf Fofana. Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano has stated that Fofana is certain to leave AS Monaco before the transfer deadline.

Manchester United has intensified their efforts to secure Fofana’s signature. Although there is no concrete agreement yet between AS Monaco and AC Milan, United is exploring the opportunity to persuade the French international to consider Old Trafford over San Siro.

According to Florian Plettenberg, United had outlined their plans to Fofana a few weeks ago and have since re-engaged with his representatives to discuss a potential deal. The 25-year-old midfielder, who has been praised as a “complete midfielder” by StatmanDave, featured in three matches during France’s Euro 2024 campaign but remained on the bench during their semi-final loss to Spain, who eventually won the tournament.Manchester United indeed has a challenging period ahead as they prepare for the upcoming season. The looming Community Shield Final against Manchester City is a significant test, especially with key players like Rasmus Hojlund unavailable. Joshua Zirkzee, though talented, is still relatively inexperienced in the Premier League, making it likely that Erik ten Hag will introduce him gradually rather than immediately placing him in a starting role.

The club’s limited transfer activity this summer, particularly the injury setback to their new defensive signing Leny Yoro, has further complicated their preparations. With Yoro sidelined due to a fractured metatarsal, United might need to rely on more experienced yet possibly less favored options like Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, or Victor Lindelof to partner Lisandro Martinez in defense.

In midfield, Manchester United’s pursuit of Youssouf Fofana from AS Monaco could be a crucial move. With AC Milan also vying for Fofana’s signature, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and United’s management are reportedly making a strong effort to sway the French international toward Old Trafford. Fofana, who had a decent showing during France’s Euro 2024 campaign, could provide the much-needed midfield depth and dynamism that United needs, especially if they fail to secure other targets before the transfer window closes.

The outcome of these transfer dealings will significantly impact United’s readiness for the new season, particularly in strengthening areas that have shown vulnerability. The next few weeks will be critical as the club attempts to finalize its squad and prepare for a grueling campaign ahead.