Manchester United are preparing for a significant squad overhaul this summer, with as many as nine players potentially leaving the club, according to a report by Paul Hirst in The Times. The planned exodus is part of a strategy to streamline the squad and generate funds for new signings under the expected permanent management of Michael Carrick, who has overseen an improved run of form as interim boss.
The report outlines several departures, with Tyrell Malacia, Casemiro, and Jadon Sancho all set to leave on free transfers. Rasmus Hojlund's loan move to Napoli will reportedly become permanent for £38 million if the Italian side secures Champions League qualification. The club is also said to be open to offers for striker Joshua Zirkzee, goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, and midfielder Manuel Ugarte, whose £50 million move from Paris Saint-Germain two years ago has not yielded the expected returns.
Further uncertainty surrounds Marcus Rashford's future. Barcelona, where he is currently on loan, are reportedly reluctant to pay a £20 million fee to make the move permanent and are assessing other options, though another loan next season remains a possibility. Rashford, who earns £325,000 a week, still has two years remaining on his United contract. Trabzonspor are also said to want to make goalkeeper André Onana's loan move to Turkey permanent.
The exit of Casemiro, in particular, marks the end of a significant era. The 34-year-old Brazilian, who will depart when his contract expires, is said to be a target for Inter Miami, who are currently the favourites for his signature according to Hirst. Despite having what has been described as his best season at United, the report states the club acknowledges his £350,000-a-week wages, which could rise to £437,500 with a Champions League qualification clause, no longer represent value.
This mass clear-out is directly linked to United's recruitment ambitions. The club is looking to sign two midfielders, a left-back, and a left winger in the upcoming window. Replacing Casemiro is a priority, with several names under consideration. The club's top target is reportedly Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, though they are unwilling to meet a £120 million asking price. Other candidates include Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni, Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton.
The scale of the potential turnover indicates a decisive shift in strategy at Old Trafford, aiming to reshape the squad to better fit Carrick's vision and the club's long-term objectives. The success of this summer's business, both in terms of outgoings and the subsequent arrivals, will be crucial as United look to build on their recent upturn and challenge consistently at the top of the Premier League.
