Man Utd’s Plan B: Free transfers, sales to fund striker signing – Man Utd News

Manchester United have had a progressive season under manager Erik ten Hag and the Dutchman will be aiming to reinforce the squad further this summer.

However, there is still uncertainty over the budget and Ten Hag could be forced to resort to free transfer signings if the ownership saga is left unresolved.

The Glazers have been in talks with the club’s suitors for the past five months but as things stand, they have yet to make any decision over a potential sale.

If the scenario stays the same until July, United may look into the free transfer market. Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot has already been identified as an important target.

Meanwhile, Borussia Monchengladbach’s Marcus Thuram is another player on the club’s radar. He could be a shrewd signing as he can play up front or on the left wing.

Elsewhere, Ten Hag may have to depend on player sales for the purchase of a marquee centre-forward.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Benfica’s Goncalo Ramos are among prime targets but each of those could cost a club-record transfer fee.

The likes of Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay, Donny van de Beek and Anthony Martial could be shown the exit door to recoup funds for the purchase of an elite striker.

This could be United’s Plan B for this summer’s transfer window in case the takeover saga continues.

We don’t see the Glazers handing a significant budget for signings this summer particularly if they are still pondering over ending their long-term association with the club.

The only way the club could spend £250-300 million this summer could be through a complete takeover or the Glazers agreeing to partial investment for a minority stake.