What Does Manchester United Need In The Summer Transfer Window?

BusinessSportsMoneyWhat Does Manchester United Need In The Summer Transfer Window?ByGraham Ruthven,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I am a soccer writer based in the United KingdomFollow AuthorApr 24, 2026, 01:22pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, United Kingdom, on April 18, 2026. (Photo by Harvey Murphy/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images)NurPhoto via Getty ImagesIt would take a special sort of collapse for Manchester United not to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Indeed, Michael Carrick’s team is currently sitting third in the Premier League table, eight points clear of sixth place. United only needs to finish fifth to secure its Champions League spot.This should give the Old Trafford club greater finances to strengthen in the summer transfer window with speculation already swirling over potential targets. Regardless of whether or not Carrick lands the manager position on a permanent basis after the end of the current season, United has work to do building up its squad.The midfield unit will be a big focus. Casemiro is set to depart Manchester United at the end of the season while Manuel Ugarte has failed to perform at the level required since making the move from Paris Saint-Germain two years ago. This is the area of the squad United must strengthen before all others.BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - MARCH 04: Carlos Baleba of Brighton & Hove Albion controls the ball during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Arsenal at Amex Stadium on March 04, 2026 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)Getty ImagesCarlos Baleba is a long-term target for the club. Manchester United reportedly weighed up an offer for the Camerooni...