Manchester United have stuck by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in tough times and now that faith seems to be paying off. The Red Devils are unbeaten in their last 15 games in all competitions, showing no signs of slowing down. They have a top 4 place in sight, with both Leicester City and Chelsea crumbling under the pressure.
However, if they’re to build on the foundations laid by this season, Ed Woodward & co. must show great ambition in the summer. With the right investment, United could be challenging Liverpool and Manchester City for the title next season.
Here’s where Manchester United need to strengthen in the summer.
#3 Left-Back
Luke Shaw has endured a torrid time with injuries and mismanagement in Manchester. The Englishman arrived at Old Trafford with high hopes after United fought off Chelsea for his signature. Since then, the left-back has failed to kick on and develop into one of the world’s best that many believed he would become.
This season, Brandon Williams has given him some much-needed competition but not enough to see a drastic improvement in performance. It’s now time for United to take their defence to the next level, with every other spot in the back four already of adequate quality.
Realistically, Manchester United could target several left-backs across the world. Names like Alex Grimaldo, Jose Gaya & Alex Sandro are all realistic options that could strengthen Ole’s defence.
#2 Holding Midfielder
Against all odds, Nemanja Matic has turned around his United career. From an obvious liability to an experienced leader, Matic has cemented his place at the anchor of the midfield. As a player who’s good at breaking up play, breaking the lines with passes and dropping in between the CBs, Matic is everything needed to allow the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba creative freedom in the final third.
However, at the age of 31 and one year left on his contract, it’s time for United to plan ahead. A midfielder in a similar mould with perhaps a bit more athleticism would provide the team with the perfect platform to compete for major honours.
Realistically, Manchester United could target several holding midfielders across Europe. Names like Thomas Partey, Wilfred Ndidi, Declan Rice and Sandro Tonali are all options that could anchor United’s midfield for years to come.
#1 Right Winger
This season due to the club failing to get their targets last summer, Daniel James has made 30 league appearances, a considerable amount more than initially intended. Ole has done this at the expense of Mason Greenwood who has impressed every time he’s played. Bear in mind both are young and not at the level yet to be consistent performers throughout the season.
One guy who is young and already world-class is long-term United target, Jadon Sancho. The youngster who left Manchester City for Germany, is now at a stage in his career where’s he ready to come back to England and excel.
The only sticking point of this dream transfer is the asking price of Borussia Dortmund who are asking for a fee no less than £120m. United have responded defiantly claiming they will not spend above £50m for him. Cheaper alternatives could arrive in the form of; Florian Thauvin, Adama Traore, Justin Kluivert and Thomas Lemar.
