Manchester United’s dream XI after Leny Yoro transfer done deal and Branthwaite, Zirkzee, De Ligt and Ugarte personal terms agreed – The premier league title is coming Home next season
Manchester United is gearing up for a season of transformation, both on and off the field. This period of change includes the appointment of a new sporting director, technical director, and CEO under fresh ownership. With these new figures in place, the club is poised for an exhilarating summer transfer window. Manager Erik ten Hag will have the opportunity to steer a revitalized team through the Premier League, Europa League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup.
In a significant move, United has finalized terms with Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt. They have also had a bid accepted for Lille’s young talent Leny Yoro and are on the verge of signing Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. Additional targets include PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte and Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. The club is also closely watching Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin. With potential exits for up to eight players, the Manchester Evening News has speculated on what United’s ideal starting XI might look like post-transfer window.
Goalkeeper
The choice of goalkeeper for United is straightforward. Andre Onana is expected to continue as the first-choice keeper. The Cameroon international, who joined from Inter Milan last summer, overcame a challenging start to prove his worth. Altay Bayindir, the Turkish international, will serve as the second-choice goalkeeper, with veteran Tom Heaton completing the trio.
Right-back
Diogo Dalot has cemented his place as United’s primary right-back and will maintain this position. Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s future, however, is uncertain. If Wan-Bissaka stays, he will be the backup, though he is also considering offers from West Ham United and Galatasaray. Should Wan-Bissaka leave, United might seek another right-back to provide competition for Dalot.
Centre-backs
United aims to bolster their central defense by adding De Ligt and Branthwaite, alongside the acquisition of teenage defender Yoro. Currently, the club already has Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, and Willy Kambwala. Jonny Evans is also in talks for a new contract. However, at least one of these defenders is likely to depart, with Lindelof being a prime candidate due to interest from Fenerbahce and a possible reunion with Jose Mourinho.
Left-back
Luke Shaw remains the first choice at left-back when fit, with Tyrell Malacia as the backup. Even if Malacia is sold, Martinez and potentially Branthwaite can also fill in at left-back.
Midfield
A three-man midfield could feature new signing Ugarte at its base, flanked by the promising teenager Kobbie Mainoo and the dynamic Bruno Fernandes. Christian Eriksen and Mason Mount would be strong options off the bench, though Mount needs to deliver a solid season to justify his transfer from Chelsea. United’s decision on Sofyan Amrabat’s loan from Fiorentina becoming permanent is still pending, and Scott McTominay’s future is uncertain amid interest from Everton and Fulham. Casemiro might be sold due to interest from Saudi Arabia, and Donny van de Beek is close to joining Girona.
Front three
United’s attack has thrived with Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford on the wings. If they perform consistently, it could spell a successful season. Antony and Amad are likely to be their backups, leading to the probable exits of Mason Greenwood, who is negotiating with Marseille, Jadon Sancho, who is attracting interest from Juventus, and Facundo Pellistri, who is on Rayo Vallecano’s radar. Zirkzee’s arrival will see him compete with Rasmus Hojlund for the central striker role, and another forward might still be brought in for additional competition.
Dream Starting XI for Manchester United:
Onana; Dalot, De Ligt, Martinez/Branthwaite, Shaw; Ugarte, Mainoo, Fernandes; Garnacho, Rashford; Zirkzee
