Manchester United will start the new Premier League season with a away game against Hull City. After finishing third last season and winning a Champions League spot, Michael Carrick's team has a basis to aim for a more positive season. However, the rebuilding process at Old Trafford has not yet been completed as some positions in the squad need to be strengthened before the transfer window closes.
Man United's long-term goal is not only to maintain a Champions League spot but also to build a squad capable of competing for the Premier League title. Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos have been brought in to improve the midfield. However, they still want to add a starting midfielder and Carlos Baleba is the top target.
Man United has made a £60 million offer for the Cameroonian midfielder. If the deal is completed, Baleba will become the third new player in M.U's midfield this summer. The 22-year-old is considered a piece of the puzzle that can complete the midfield reform process, alongside Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount.
Compared to last season, the "Red Devils'" midfield is theoretically significantly stronger. Casemiro is the only notable player to leave the team, while Tielemans, Santos and possibly Baleba will bring more strength, tackling ability and flexibility to Carrick.
The goalkeeper is currently not a priority for Man United. Senne Lammens has made an impression since joining and is likely to continue to hold the number one position. Although it cannot be confirmed that the Belgian goalkeeper has reached the level to help the team conquer major titles, he is still considered capable of taking on this role in the near future.
M.U's center-back position is the issue of concern. Matthijs de Ligt has just returned to training after injury and fitness issues have made him not a truly stable option. Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are highly appreciated for their potential, but both still need more time to reach the level of top Premier League center-backs.
Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez are likely to still play an important role in Carrick's plan. Both have had good performances in Man United colors, but also revealed limitations in speed, fitness and stability. If they want to compete for the championship in the near future, Man United may have to invest in this position.
The left-back is another problem that needs to be solved. Luke Shaw still has experience and has contributed a lot, but at the age of 31, Man United needs to prepare a long-term replacement plan. Patrick Dorgu is being tested in the winger position, while Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot can take on roles in both corridors.
The "Red Devils" were once interested in Lewis Hall of Newcastle, but the price of 70 million pounds made the deal difficult to make. Alejandro Balde of Barcelona, David Raum and young defender Jorge Salinas are also on the list of options mentioned.
M.U's attack in general has more options. Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo help Man United own a stable attacking trio, while Marcus Rashford returns after playing for Barcelona on loan. Amad can also take on many different roles.
However, the "Red Devils" can still look for a backup striker if Joshua Zirkzee leaves Old Trafford. Ivan Toney and Jean-Philippe Mateta have been linked up, but this is not a mandatory need. Mbeumo and Rashford can both be used in the number 9 position when necessary.
Overall, Man United has made significant changes but still has a lot of work to do. The left-back is a position that needs to be considered before the transfer window closes, while the center-back will be a long-term problem.
