Reports suggest up to ten players set for axe

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal could be prepared to drastically change his squad ahead of the new season, with the Daily Star reporting at least ten players could be departing.

The Red Devils have found themselves unbeaten in their last six, after an impressive run of form. Victories against Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Manchester City have almost confirmed their place in the Champions League next season, and van Gaal will now be preparing his side to face some of Europe’s toughest opponents.

With David De Gea currently enjoying the form of his life, and January arrival Victor Valdes worthy of starting regularly in the Premier League, Anders Lindegaard and Ben Amos are believed to be deemed surplus to requirements. English keeper Amos has openly stated he wishes to make a permanent departure in the summer, while Lindegaard may want to look elsewhere in the Premier League, or return to Scandinavia, in order to feature weekly.

United’s back four has come under considerable scrutiny this season, and are regularly deemed as the weak link in the Old Trafford set-up. With reports suggesting Southampton full-back Nathaniel Clyne has already agreed a deal with the 20-time league champions, out-of-favour Rafael is expected to leave the club.

Central defender Jonny Evans is also linked to the exit door, as Marcos Rojo, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all preferred to the Northern Ireland international. After a number of lacklustre performances, halted by a lengthy suspension for allegedly spitting, Evans’ time may have come to an end, as United are regularly linked with Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels.

A number of midfielders are also suggested to face the axe from the Dutchman. Tom Cleverley’s departure looks imminent, while Nick Powell and Nani could also look elsewhere. Powell has struggled for game time following a number of loan spells, and despite Nani’s successful season on loan to Sporting CP, his wage bill may not justify his performances.

Will Keane, Angelo Henriquez and Javier Hernandez could be allowed to leave the club according to reports, while Radamel Falcao’s return to AS Monaco looks probable. All four have struggled to feature while competing for places alongside Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie, and Hernandez could make his loan spell in Spain permanent.