A turbulent summer is waiting for Manchester United, no matter what happens in the last weeks of the Premier League season.
However, Michael Carrick's performance with the coaching staff from now until May may play a key role in shaping the transfer plan, whether the team's coach next season is him or another coach.
Last summer's signings helped refresh the attack and brought positive impacts. Now, the responsibility lies with the board of directors in maintaining that momentum of progress with stronger steps in the transfer market.
The targets have gradually emerged, with three positions that need to be prioritized for strengthening. In parallel, the decision on the head coach position is also a key issue, promising a volatile transfer window at Old Trafford.
Defender Harry Maguire, who is approaching a contract extension, has played an important role in the improvement of the team since Ruben Amorim left. However, he also emphasized the need to strengthen the force if the team wants to maintain its momentum.
This will be a big summer. We need more players to elevate the squad" - Maguire shared, while expressing support for Carrick in a long-term role.
One of Man United's top priorities is to upgrade the midfield. Names like Elliot Anderson or Carlos Baleba have been targeted, in the context that Casemiro's future is unclear. However, the price for these targets could be up to £100 million.
On the wing, the team is also looking for a left winger who is right-footed. Iliman Ndiaye and Yan Diomande are options being considered.
The left-back position is also on the list to be added, with Lewis Hall and Nathaniel Brown as potential targets.
Winning a Champions League spot will play a key role in terms of finance. Under Carrick's leadership, the "Red Devils" have won 7/10 recent domestic league matches, rising to third place and opening up opportunities to return to the most prestigious European arena.
If this goal is achieved, additional revenue will help the team increase spending power as well as attractiveness in the transfer market, creating a foundation for long-term development.
Another important issue is who will lead the team next season. Although Carrick was initially only temporarily appointed, his recent impressive performance is making him a bright candidate for the official position.
However, Man United currently operates according to a model where player recruitment does not completely depend on the coach. Technical Director Christopher Vivell and Football Director Jason Wilcox have begun planning for the upcoming transfer window.
This helps reduce instability, while ensuring that the long-term strategy is not affected by changes on the coaching bench.
In the context that the World Cup may affect the progress of negotiations, early preparation will help Man United limit risks and maximize opportunities in the summer transfer market.
