Ornstein sheds light on Man Utd’s ‘crazy’ summer plans, reveals three roles to bolster | OneFootball

The Athletic journalist David Ornstein told Manchester United what to expect ahead of the summer transfer campaign.

INEOS chose to sit idle during the winter, keeping Michael Carrick’s squad intact. The only activity on the market during January involved academy players, including the likes of Harry Amass and Toby Collyer, who were recalled, only to be sent on new loan experiences with different Championship clubs.

Even Tyrell Malacia, who was expected to be the solitary first-team exit, ended up staying at the club, much to his dismay. The 26-year-old Dutchman was reportedly left furious at the airport after receiving a call from Man Utd technical director, Jason Wilcox, telling him that his deadline-day move to Besiktas had been cancelled.

Man United set for a modest summer transfer campaign?

Due to the lack of activity in the winter, many fans and observers are expecting United to make up for it with some summer fireworks, especially if the club succeeds in qualifying for the Champions League.

But according to Ornstein, MUFC’s transfer campaign won’t be as ‘crazy’ as expected.

The reliable journalist instead believes INEOS could settle for a modest transfer campaign, only addressing limited issues in the squad, while the vast majority of the team will be confirmed.

The three positions that Man Utd will address next summer

During his appearance on Sky Sports, Ornstein suggested that the bulk of United’s summer campaign could revolve around the middle of the park.

Carrick is already operating with limited options in midfield, especially after switching Bruno Fernandes back to his original role as a No.10. Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo are currently the regular starters, while Manuel Ugarte is the only senior option off the bench.

With Casemiro’s departure already announced, Man Utd might need at least two new midfielders, and the main candidates remain Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton.

Casemiro smiles at the Man United fans as he leaves the pitch. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

In addition to the midfield revamp, Ornstein expects the Red Devils to sign a new left winger after missing out on Antoine Semenyo in January. The versatile Matheus Cunha remains the main player for this role, but the team could do with an alternative option.

Finally, the transfer market insider believes a new defender could arrive if Harry Maguire ends up leaving the club as a free agent, but he reckons that the 32-year-old’s future has yet to be decided.