Recent arrivals include Andrey Santos from Chelsea for about £50 million, Youri Tielemens from Aston Villa for roughly £35 million, and Carlos Baleba from Brighton for about £65 million plus up to £5 million in add-ons. With these additions, United have strengthened their midfield options. However, securing a left-back to challenge Luke Shaw, who is entering the final year of his contract, is widely viewed as a priority after Shaw’s uneven start to the season.
Meanwhile, Joshua Zirkzee is the subject of strong late-interest from clubs such as Juventus and Fiorentina, potentially opening up the need for a new forward. Manager Michael Carrick’s side have played matches without a dedicated centre-forward in recent games against Hull City and Ipswich Town, a situation that could shift ahead of their meeting with Everton on Sunday. Benjamin Sesko is nearing full fitness after missing the final three Premier League games of last season with an injury, which could influence plans up front.
There is also ongoing talk of a potential pursuit of Alexander Sorloth, the Atletico Madrid forward who has been offered to United. The 30-year-old Norway international is reported to be available for around £30 million, although it is suggested there could be a preference for a loan if a final decision on the fee proves challenging. Sorloth previously played for Crystal Palace, where he made 20 appearances and scored once, and has since enjoyed productive spells with Real Sociedad, Villarreal, and Atlético Madrid, scoring 44 goals in 107 appearances for the latter.
In terms of defense, United’s search for a left-back continues. While Lewis Hall of Newcastle United is a prime target, a move is unlikely, and Alejandro Balde has indicated a desire to remain with Barcelona after United reportedly reached out to his representatives. Earlier this week, reports emerged that United had made an unexpected inquiry for Aston Villa’s Ian Maatsen as part of their broader strategy to secure a new left-back.
These developments suggest that Manchester United are weighing several options to strengthen both their attacking options and defensive depth as the transfer window progresses, with a particular emphasis on adding competition at left-back and considering additional forward options if the right opportunity arises.
