Following a prolonged period of uncertainty, during which Ineos took nearly three weeks to confirm Erik ten Hag’s continued tenure as manager following an extensive end-of-season evaluation, it appears that ten Hag is now focused on making up for lost time as he prepares for the upcoming season.
With plans to strengthen several key areas including central defense, midfield, and striker positions, ten Hag is actively reaching out to potential signings to bolster the squad. Given Manchester United’s cautious approach to adhering to Premier League expenditure limits, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his inner circle at Ineos are expected to adopt a stringent approach to player sales this summer, aiming to streamline the squad effectively.
In another development, Manchester United is reportedly preparing for the possibility of Mason Greenwood not being sold within the next two weeks, thereby necessitating plans for his reintroduction to the team during pre-season preparations. Despite reports valuing the talented forward at £40 million, no concrete offers have materialized yet, with Lazio allegedly making a bid of £30 million.
Greenwood’s absence from the team since January 2022, following legal issues that were subsequently dismissed in February 2023, has left his future uncertain. The player has consistently denied the allegations against him. According to Manchester Evening News, Juventus and Napoli have shown interest in Greenwood, who spent the past season on loan at Getafe, with the Spanish club expressing their desire to retain him for the upcoming season.
With just twelve months remaining on his current contract with Manchester United, discussions have reportedly taken place with Borussia Dortmund regarding a potential move for the 22-year-old forward.
Meanwhile, Manchester United has been linked with Manuel Ugarte, a midfielder currently representing Uruguay at the Copa America, who is managed by the same agent as Paris Saint-Germain. Jorge Chijane, Ugarte’s agent, recently addressed speculation surrounding his client’s future, particularly in light of previous links to Liverpool.
Speaking to O Jogo about potential summer transfers, Chijane remarked, “Liverpool? While there has been much discussion, there are other clubs in the mix as well. Although a lot is being said, I cannot be certain about the club. There are several opportunities on the table. It’s highly likely he will depart; it seems unlikely he will stay. I believe the situation will be resolved soon.”
As the summer transfer window progresses, Manchester United continues to navigate these intricate negotiations and strategic decisions, aiming to reinforce their squad while addressing potential departures and incoming transfers that could shape their competitive ambitions for the upcoming season.