Man United chief outlines ‘clear plan’ for summer transfer window | OneFootball

Manchester United chief executive Omar Berrada has declared the club possesses a "clear plan" for summer transfers, asserting they will not allow market forces or agents to dictate their strategy.

Building on last year’s successful recruitment of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Senne Lammens, Berrada is confident the club can strengthen further. A £35 million fee is already understood to be agreed with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, with more additions expected.

On the Inside Carrington podcast, Berrada outlined the club’s strategic approach, stating: "I think the template of what we did last summer will be replicated. We have a clear plan. I do think what we saw last season is a good way forward for us, which is we want a mix of experience and youth, we want a mix of players who have demonstrated they can perform in the Premier League and perhaps also players who are doing very well outside the Premier League."

He emphasised a long-term vision: "But we will always do it within our terms, ensuring that whatever decision we take is not just for the short term, but also for the long term."

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Man United are closing in on the signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson (PA Wire)

Berrada underscored the importance of financial prudence. "We have to be really disciplined, it’s simple. We know what we can invest and we have to stick to that," he explained, adding a firm warning against external pressures: "It’s very important that you don’t let the market or the agents dictate what we should be doing."

United confirmed Michael Carrick’s permanent appointment as head coach last month. The 44-year-old impressed during his interim tenure, following Ruben Amorim’s January sacking, guiding the team to a third-place Premier League finish and Champions League qualification.

Berrada lauded Carrick’s impact and suitability. "I think he’s earned the right to continue leading the team over the next two years or more," he remarked.

Describing Carrick as "somebody who is very calm but also very driven”, Berrada expressed certainty that Carrick and his staff would strive for success.

He added: "I think when we look at the squad and what we’re trying to do over the next two years, he does bring the right attributes, the right ingredients, character, understanding of the club to help us navigate through the next steps of our journey."

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Berrada has given his full backing to Michael Carrick (PA Wire)

The club also announced third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton has signed a new one-year contract. The 40-year-old, with three England caps, has made just three first-team appearances since his 2021 return to Old Trafford.

Heaton, a product of United’s youth ranks who has played for several other clubs, conveyed his enthusiasm. "It is a huge honour to continue to represent Manchester United," he said.

"You can feel the determination and ambition of everyone throughout the club to keep pushing for success. I am really excited to play my role in driving us forward and helping the group to compete for the biggest honours."