David Ornstein names three positions United want to strengthen this summer

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·03 de fevereiro de 2026

David Ornstein names three positions United want to strengthen this summer

Manchester United endured a topsy-turvy 2025/26 campaign under former head coach Ruben Amorim before caretaker manager Michael Carrick brought much-needed relief at the Theatre of Dreams. The Red Devils managed eight wins in their 20 games under the Portuguese, who departed at the start of the year after the 1-1 draw away to Leeds United.

Following Darren Fletcher’s two-game interim spell, which included a 2-2 league draw against Burnley and a 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, Carrick arrived to steady the ship. The Englishman’s primary objective will be to secure Champions League qualification, and he has already won his first three games in charge.

Vídeos OneFootball

The Race to the Top Four - 2025/26 Season

Source: Premier League website.

United will be desperate to return to Europe’s premier club competition next season, as it could have a massive impact on their transfer activity this summer. Recent reports have suggested that the Red Devils want to reinforce their midfield at the end of the season. Acclaimed journalist David Ornstein has provided an insight into the Premier League giants’ plans for the upcoming transfer window.

United eyeing multiple additions

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Ornstein stated that United are looking to strengthen three positions this summer. He said: “I do think there’s a lot that they want to do.”

“Most importantly, centre midfield, so that’s why we are going to see continued links with the likes of Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and there will be others in the frame because that is such a critical position, especially now Casemiro has confirmed his departure.”

“There’s also intrigue around the left-sided attacking position because obviously they were in for Antoine Semenyo. Didn’t get him. They will have Sancho and Rashford departing. That’s an existing aim for that part of the pitch.”

“Will Harry Maguire be leaving the club? He’s been so important but this is his option year and he’s due to leave, with no news on a new contract, so central defence will be an area of focus.”

“There’s a number of positions there that Manchester United or whoever the new head coach is going to be, which is going to be one of the biggest stories of 2026. Whether it be Michael Carrick or a fresh appointment altogether.”

“I think the early signs with Carrick have given Manchester United fans some hope and people around Manchester United despite it being very embryonic, that better times could be ahead. However, we have been here before. Actions speak louder than words.”

Summer could see mass exodus

While United will look to add more quality to their squad before the start of the new season, they are likely to part ways with several current players as well. Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund, who are all out on loan, are expected to leave Old Trafford permanently.

Casemiro has already announced that he will depart once his contract expires at the end of this season, while Manuel Ugarte’s future hangs in the balance. Maguire and Tyrell Malacia are out of contract in less than five months, while Joshua Zirkzee could also be on the move. The outgoings are likely to help the Red Devils save millions in wages, and could stabilise their finances.

Final Thoughts

INEOS enjoyed tremendous success in the transfer market last summer, with Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens all hitting the ground running. Benjamin Sesko, meanwhile, is showing promising signs after a slow start, so fans will hope that United can repeat the trick this year.