Manchester United are heading into what could be one of their busiest summer windows in years, with several senior players expected to leave Old Trafford.
Casemiro appeared to say goodbye to the club after Sunday’s 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest, with the Brazilian midfielder among the names likely to move on at the end of the season.
With Michael Carrick expected to be appointed permanent manager in the coming days, United’s recruitment plans are now entering a decisive phase. The club are preparing for a return to Champions League football, but the squad will need major work if they are to compete across four competitions.
Goalkeepers facing uncertain futures
Andre Onana’s future looks particularly doubtful.
The goalkeeper’s time at Manchester United has been marked by costly mistakes, and his high wages make him a player the club would be open to moving on. Whether through a permanent sale or loan deal, Onana is expected to leave.
Altay Bayindir could also depart, with the backup goalkeeper linked with a return to Turkey. With Senne Lammens expected to be ahead of him in the pecking order, Bayindir may need to leave if he wants regular football.
Radek Vitek impressed on loan at Bristol City, but United may prefer to send him out again rather than use him as a regular cup goalkeeper next season.
Dermot Mee, currently part of the wider goalkeeping group, could also leave on a free transfer this summer.
Defensive changes expected
Tyrell Malacia is set to leave when his contract expires.
The left-back’s spell at United has been badly affected by injuries, and he now needs regular minutes elsewhere to restart his career. A new left-back is likely to be on United’s transfer list, especially with teenager Diego Leon still needing time to develop and Harry Amass and Godwill Kukonki ahead of him.
At centre-back, Harry Maguire’s new deal means he will remain part of the squad alongside Lisandro Martinez, Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro. Matthijs de Ligt’s return date remains unclear.
Tyler Fredricson, who has made four senior appearances for the club, is another defender who could leave in search of more regular football.
Midfield rebuild begins with Casemiro exit
Casemiro is expected to be one of the headline departures.
The Brazilian has played a major role since arriving from Real Madrid, but Sunday’s farewell mood suggested his time at Old Trafford is coming to an end.
Manuel Ugarte is also expected to leave after struggling to make the impact many hoped for. His likely exit means United may need at least two new central midfielders this summer.
Carrick will also need to make a decision on Toby Collyer, while Dan Gore could move on after spending the season on loan at Rotherham United.
Younger midfielders such as the Fletcher twins, Jimmy Thwaites and Sekou Kone will hope to make an impression during pre-season.
Forward line could look very different
United’s attack is also set for change.
Rasmus Hojlund is expected to complete a permanent move to Napoli, while Jadon Sancho will leave when his contract expires. Hojlund showed flashes of promise, but his departure would leave United needing more firepower.
Marcus Rashford’s future also appears likely to end away from Old Trafford. Barcelona are expected to decide how far they want to go for the England forward, but if they do not move, other clubs are likely to show interest.
Joshua Zirkzee is another player with an uncertain future. The Dutch forward may want more minutes, and it remains to be seen whether he would accept a squad role next season even with Champions League football increasing the schedule.
In the academy, Shea Lacey has impressed in glimpses and could push for a first-team role, while Chido Obi may be sent out on loan.
Carrick faces huge summer task
United’s summer plan looks clear but demanding.
Carrick and the recruitment team may need to bring in a goalkeeper, a left-back, two central midfielders and at least one forward just to cover the expected departures.
With Champions League football returning, squad depth will be essential. United need enough quality to handle the Premier League, Europe and domestic cup competitions without repeating the inconsistency of recent seasons.
The win over Nottingham Forest may have offered a positive end to the campaign at Old Trafford, but it also felt like the beginning of a major transition. For Carrick, the real work starts now.
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