Five key questions Manchester United must answer as Premier League transfer window opens - timelineoffuture
September 19, 2024

With the Premier League transfer window officially opening today, a busy summer is expected to begin at Old Trafford.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag in conversation with David de Gea (Image: Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Eric ten Haag has scored many goals this summer. Harry Kane is considered to be a top priority, but questions remain as to whether Tottenham Hotspur will be ready for a sale.

Mason Mount is believed to have made a personal deal with the Reds and ten Haag has had several video calls with Rasmus Hojlund. According to reports from Italy, Kim Min-jae is close to signing as United look to strengthen their defense.

Heading into an undoubtedly busy summer, the Manchester Evening News is grappling with five big questions to answer during the transfer window.

1 – What is Ten Hag’s budget?

United’s boss admitted last month he was in the dark about his budget for the summer.

“I don’t have influence on that,” he explained. “I don’t know. The only thing I know is that Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs, among maybe the two biggest clubs in the world from a fanbase perspective. So, I think this club has to compete for the highest in the world, so Champions League, Premier League. But in football you need funds to construct squads because the level from your players makes you successful or not.”

The Dutchman needs to know the parameters he is working under in the market before implementing his plan, unfortunately for him the ongoing takeover process is a hinderance.

2 – Which striker will be coming in?

Following the lack of goals this season, a new striker is a key priority in the summer. In an ideal world for Ten Hag, Kane would arrive. But, considering Spurs are not keen to sell, United will likely need to look at alternatives. As well as Hojlund, Victor Osimhen and Randal Kolo Muani are highly thought of by Ten Hag so there could be a few avenues to explore this summer.

3 – Who will be let go?

Phil Jones has already announced his intention to leave, with more names to follow. Eric Bailly, Anthony Elanga and Brandon Williams could all be heading out, while Harry Maguire, who was demoted to fourth-choice centre-back last season, faces a big decision. Questions remain about many fringe players such as Anthony Elanga, Scott McTominy, Fred and Donnie van de Beek.

4 – Who will arrive in midfield?

Bruno Fernandes has proven his worth at Ten Hague this season by occupying midfield, but that’s not the long-term solution. At least one midfielder must be signed to offer options. It looks like mounts are arriving soon, but it doesn’t matter if more are added.

5 – What next for De Gea?

Perhaps United’s most pressing selection issue revolves around David De Gea. The Spanish player’s contract expires this month, but he is expected to stay. If he stays, he may not be the first choice next season, and if he leaves United, he will need two goalkeepers before the season starts.

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