What Does Manchester United Need In The Summer Transfer Window?

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)

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Carlos Baleba is a long-term target for the club. Manchester United reportedly weighed up an offer for the Cameroonian last year, but couldn’t make the numbers work. This summer, though, Baleba might be available for less after a challenging 2025/26 season playing for Brighton.

Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton have also been linked with a summer switch to Old Trafford while Aurelien Tchouameni has been mentioned as a potential target. All three midfielders would elevate the level of Manchester United’s options in the centre of the field, albeit for a lot of money.

In defence, Manchester United is also reportedly monitoring Micky van de Ven. The Dutch centre back is part of the Tottenham Hotspur team fighting to stay in the Premier League, but has previously demonstrated his ability at a high level and will have no shortage of suitors this summer.

TOPSHOT - Manchester United's Brazilian striker #10 Matheus Cunha celebrates scoring their fourth goal to take the lead 4-3 during the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Bournemouth at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on December 15, 2025. (Photo by PETER POWELL / AFP via Getty Images) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. /

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Last summer, United strengthened well, improving its forward line through the addition of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. All three have contributed to varying degrees this season while Senne Lammens, who also signed last summer, has established himself as Manchester United’s new first-choice goalkeeper.

It’s possible United’s fortunes in the transfer market have changed. While the club was not so long ago renowned for its lack of success in signing new players, its recent additions have been far more astute. That trend must continue into the summer transfer window when some key problem positions need to be addressed.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com