Manchester United an impressive raid on a single club worth £100 million. The aim is to strengthen Carrick’s squad for next season – and they will strike early.
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West Ham trouble could be United’s luck
All attention is now focused on the summer transfer window. United expect hectic weeks to be able to compete on all fronts. Several positions will be strengthened.
If West Ham are relegated this season, The Guardian writes that the Hammers will have to raise £100 million through player sales to balance the accounts. That news has put Man Utd in high spirits.
First man out: Mateus Fernandes
United are said to be very interested in midfielder Mateus Fernandes. He has impressed greatly this season and has become a top candidate to strengthen Carrick’s midfield. West Ham expect the Portuguese to disappear – just 12 months after joining from Southampton for £40 million. The club hopes that the interest around him will allow them to double the money.
Number two: Left-back with an African star
But it doesn’t stop there. United are also looking for a new left-back. Luke Shaw is entering his final 12 months of his contract, and Senegal star El Hadji Malick Diouf has emerged as a concrete target.
West Ham signed Diouf last summer for £19 million. The Hammers hope to get that money back if he is sold. United have money to spend and will prioritise key areas early on. Fernandes’ price tag, on the other hand, is likely to be a challenge.
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Why it is urgent for Carrick
Manchester United have done everything right in recent months. The future is secured well in advance. The managerial situation is resolved before the end of the season. Now it is important to get the transfers done as early as possible.
The World Cup means that players will be away for much of the summer. Carrick will thus have a short pre-season before the new season. The more players that are in place early, the easier the adaptation period will be.
Diouf and Fernandes would be outstanding signings. They have already shown that they are at the level of the Premier League. And worst of all for West Ham: The deals are right there in front of United – if they want them.
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