Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag is expected to reveal the acquisition of two prominent players today at Old Trafford.

Manchester United are close to announcing two significant signings as Ineos continues to influence the ongoing developments at Old Trafford. Noussair Mazraoui and Matthijs de Ligt, both of whom Erik ten Hag knows from their time together at Ajax, are expected to join for a combined fee of approximately £51.5 million. Their contracts are expected to be completed before United’s Premier League opener against Fulham on Friday night at 8pm, though it’s uncertain if they will be available for that game. Their addition is intended to strengthen the squad both in the short and long term.United have clearly identified defense as a priority this summer. Ineos has been open to adding up to three new center-backs, but additional signings will depend on player sales and the need for reinforcements in other areas, such as another left-back and a possible replacement for Casemiro in the defensive midfield role.

Although Casemiro appears to be in good form, United might delay plans to find his successor. Financial constraints could influence this decision, but Ten Hag and his staff will likely explore alternative options. One possibility could be shifting Lisandro Martinez to a defensive midfield role, a position he occasionally played at Ajax. While Ten Hag had previously dismissed this idea, Martinez’s tenacity and passing ability could be valuable, particularly with support from players like Kobbie Mainoo, Scott McTominay, and Mason Mount, who provide significant energy and stamina.

This potential change in Martinez’s role highlights the tactical adjustments Ten Hag may need to make throughout the season to keep United competitive.Manchester United’s imminent signings of Noussair Mazraoui and Matthijs de Ligt are poised to significantly bolster their defensive ranks. The deals, reportedly worth a combined £51.5 million, reflect the influence of Ineos in shaping United’s transfer strategy under Erik ten Hag. Both players have a strong connection with Ten Hag from their time at Ajax, which should ease their integration into the squad.

Mazraoui, a versatile right-back, and de Ligt, a formidable center-back, are expected to address key defensive vulnerabilities. However, their availability for United’s Premier League opener against Fulham remains uncertain due to the tight timeline for completing their contracts.

United’s focus on strengthening the defense is clear, with the possibility of adding up to three new center-backs under consideration. However, further signings might depend on player sales and the club’s ability to manage financial constraints, especially in other key areas like left-back and defensive midfield.

Casemiro, despite being in good form, has raised questions about his long-term successor. Financial limitations might delay United’s pursuit of a direct replacement, but Erik ten Hag could consider internal solutions, such as shifting Lisandro Martinez into a defensive midfield role. Though initially resistant to this idea, Ten Hag might explore this option to maximize Martinez’s attributes, particularly if supported by energetic midfielders like Kobbie Mainoo, Scott McTominay, and Mason Mount.

This tactical flexibility could prove crucial as United navigate the challenges of the upcoming season, balancing squad depth and performance to remain competitive on all fronts.