Gary Neville has identified the four key positions that Erik ten Hag must strengthen this summer as the Manchester United manager continues to rebuild his squad.
Ten Hag will celebrate a successful first season at United come June, with the Dutchman having already brought silverware to Old Trafford in the form of the Carabao Cup and on course to secure a top-four finish. The Reds are third and six points clear of fifth-placed Tottenham, with an FA Cup semi-final against Brighton to look forward to on Sunday as well.
But while the season has been one of steady improvement, several humbling defeats have highlighted issues within the squad that will need addressing this summer. Ten Hag is expected to sanction at least two major signings, with a world-class striker and a ball-playing midfielder atop his list.
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Answering a question from a Twitter follower about United's needs this summer, Neville echoed Ten Hag's desire for a striker, adding a right-back, centre-back and a goalkeeper to his four-position shortlist.
David de Gea is in the final months of a four-year contract he signed in 2019, with United opting against a 12-month extension as they hope to lower his £375,000-per-week wages. But Thursday's 3-0 defeat to Sevilla, and the final goal in particular, highlighted the Spaniard's issues with the ball at his feet.
Reports of a new deal for the 32-year-old have differed in specifics, but with Dean Henderson likely to be sold and on-loan Jack Butland due to return to Crystal Palace, a new goalkeeper could be on Ten Hag's list regardless of what De Gea's future holds.
United have held talks with Jeremie Frimpong as they look to strengthen the right-back position. The 22-year-old has been outstanding for Bayer Leverkusen this season and could be ready for the next step in his career. Aaron Wan-Bissaka has enjoyed a resurgence since the turn of the year but is expected to be put up for sale regardless, while Dalot is in talks over a new contract.
United are open to selling Harry Maguire and Eric Bailly this summer, and Neville believes a new centre-back should be joining the ranks to compensate. Several have been linked in recent months, including Jurrien Timber, Alessandro Bastoni and Kim Min-jae.
Ten Hag's long-standing interest in Harry Kane has been well-documented with the Tottenham striker a key summer target. As well as Kane, the Reds are interested in Victor Osimhen, Randal Kolo Muani and Rasmus Hojlund.
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