Man United are waiting on Saudi interest to firm up for Anthony Martial as Erik ten Hag looks to flog FIVE stars to raise funds amid FFP concerns
Man United are waiting on Saudi interest to firm up for Anthony Martial as Erik ten Hag looks to flog FIVE stars to raise funds amid FFP concerns
Manchester United‘s transfer business this summer is far from done. Manager Erik ten Hag has already splashed out a combined £180million on Mason Mount, Rasmus Hojlund and Andre Onana.
However, there’s more work to do, as proven by a fortunate 1-0 win against Wolves in the Premier League opener, followed by a limp 2-0 loss against Tottenham.
Ten Hag ideally wants to strengthen throughout the spine of his team – adding to the goalkeeping department, possibly centre back, central midfield and up front, after Mason Greenwood’s departure.
Given he has blown United’s entire summer transfer budget on the three incomings, the Dutch boss is relying on exits before he can make any additions.
It is felt the fees for Onana and Hojlund were over-inflated, while the club paid the premium to buy Mount, a young English player from a Premier League rival. And at the moment, Mail Sport understands United cannot afford any deals.
Premier League side Manchester United’s summer transfer market business is far from over
The club hope to add in central midfield, with Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat (above) an option
But United must sell first to raise funds, with Anthony Martial, 27, one player who could depart
The English giants are already struggling to comply with Financial Fair Play restrictions, have received a minor fine and may receive another.
Ten Hag is looking to sell three stars, and is open to offers for two more, to raise funds for further arrivals.
Centre back Eric Bailly and midfielder Donny van de Beek are headed for the exit door.
While United are waiting for a Saudi Arabian side, or similar, to firm up their interest in striker Anthony Martial.
Defender Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay will be allowed to leave if a suitable offer is received, though neither want to leave or will be pushed to leave given their status as professional and capable squad players.
Some or all of those sales, possibly at below market value, could allow Ten Hag to bolster his squad.
Cover at goalkeeper is desired, with Dean Henderson – who is ready to join Crystal Palace – currently acting as No 2 despite not being fully fit – and interest in No 3 Tom Heaton.
Mail Sport understands Benfica’s Odysseas Vlachodimos may be too expensive, though Fenerbahce and Turkey stopper Altay Bayindir is still on their radar.
Nice centre half Jean-Clair Todibo is still in contact with the club as they line up a potential replacement for Maguire if he leaves.
While in central midfield, Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat remains an option.
However, United have also enquired about the availability of Liverpool target Ryan Gravenberch at Bayern Munich and Everton’s Amadou Onana to assess what deals are available at the moment.
Ideally, competition for Rasmus Hojlund up front would allow the 20-year-old some time to bed in rather than facing immediate pressure to deliver in a new league but there is an understanding that may not happen.
Greenwood’s exit will also reduce the strength of their forward line.