Manchester United are targeting several players in the summer transfer window as Michael Carrick looks to strengthen the squad, with big names linked with a move to Old Trafford
Manchester United can clinch Champions League football for next season with three Premier League games remaining if they defeat bitter rivals Liverpool.
A victory over the reigning champions would enable the Red Devils to start plotting their summer signings with a considerably larger budget. Michael Carrick has overseen a remarkable transformation since his appointment as interim manager in January.
Securing entry into Europe’s elite competition is financially rewarding and could help United lure players of the finest quality. As Carrick seeks to complete the league double over Liverpool on Sunday, speculation regarding their potential summer dealings continues to dominate headlines. Here’s all the latest news from Old Trafford.
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United eye up £86m star
United’s ambition to overhaul their midfield this summer could lead to the signing of Benfica star Richard Rios, reports the Mirror.
The Colombia international only moved to the Portuguese outfit last summer, for a reported fee of £24million.
However, his outstanding displays have seen the 26-year-old attract attention from numerous clubs, including United, according to Colombian press.
O Jogo reports Rios is a primary target for Napoli and it is claimed the club’s sporting director Giovanni Manna has already started approaching the player. It’s suggested the ball-winning midfielder has an £86m release clause.
However, United could dash Scott McTominay’s hopes of gaining a new midfield colleague should they beat Napoli to landing Rios’ signature.
The Scotland international frequently lines up alongside Frank Anguissa and fellow countryman Billy Gilmour in the heart of midfield. The potential arrival of the Colombian would inject both competition and quality into Napoli’s central area.
But the Red Devils are also desperately in need of someone with Rios’ profile as they look to replace Brazil stalwart Casemiro, who is leaving Old Trafford on a free transfer when his contract expires in June.
United target urged to depart in swap deal
AC Milan star Rafael Leao could be another player making his way to Old Trafford this summer.
The 26-year-old has netted just nine league goals during an injury-hit campaign and his relationship with Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri appears irreparable.
Former Milan and England manager Fabio Capello advised the Italian heavyweights to sever ties with the Portuguese international, suggesting United’s Joshua Zirkzee as an ideal replacement.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello stated: “If I were Milan, I’d make the swap immediately. I’d see the Dutchman as a much better fit in Max’s 3-5-2.
“Zirkzee is someone who gets the team playing and is very good at communicating with his team-mates.”
Expressing enthusiasm about the prospective pairing of Zirkzee and Christian Pulisic, the legendary 79-year-old added: “For me, the Zirkzee-Pulisic partnership would be brilliant. If Sorloth and either Gimenez or Nkunku were alternatives, one could say the attack is in good shape.”
