New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag wants to make ‘at least five signings’ before the end of the summer transfer window after taking over at Old Trafford, according to reports.
The former Ajax boss took the helm following the end of the season, with interim boss Ralf Rangnick stepping aside for the Dutchman. However, he is yet to make any new additions to the side that finished sixth last season, while six players have departed on free transfers.
However, as per the Manchester Evening News, this is expected to change, with Ten Hag hoping to add at least five new faces this summer.
Front and centre is Frenkie de Jong, with Ten Hag keen to make his former star a cornerstone of his Old Trafford midfield. However, the Red Devils are keen not to be held to ransom over the Dutchman, keen to come to a compromise with cash-strapped Barcelona.
Manchester United are discussing internally about submitting a new proposal for Frenkie de Jong in the next days. It’s a serious possibility, while talks with Barça are still on. 🚨🇳🇱 #MUFC
Deal will enter into key stages after €60m [& add-ons] verbal, opening bid turned down. pic.twitter.com/S434UHZXCL
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2022
Meanwhile, doubt has been cast over a deal for Ajax man Jurrien Timber, but the centre of defence is certainly an area to keep an eye on. So too is Timber’s teammate, Antony, who the Red Devils are thought to be keen on bringing to Manchester.
Christian Eriksen is yet another name on their shortlist, with the Dane seemingly set to choose between the Red Devils and his former club Tottenham now he has ended his employment with Brentford. It is not thought that this would impact any De Jong deal.
Timber alternatives?
With Jurrien Timber’s chances of ending the transfer window in England seemingly shrinking, Manchester United have earmarked alternative targets.
Both Villareal centre-back Pau Torres, who they have held a longstanding interest in, and Braga defender David Carmo are on that list, while they have also been credited with an interest in Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio.
It promises to be a busy transfer window for the Red Devils, even if it has hardly kicked off yet.
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