The summer transfer window hasn’t even opened yet, and Manchester United are already linked with a lengthy list of potential targets. A new midfielder seems a certainty amid speculation over Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.
There is a chance that two midfielders arrive at Old Trafford with Casemiro departing at the end of the season. Manuel Ugarte’s disappointing spell with the Reds might also mean a replacement is signed.
INEOS were busy last summer, making four signings, including three attackers. They turned to Benjamin Sesko to become the club’s new number nine, although he’s made a topsy-turvy start.
Manchester United eyeing ex-Manchester City striker
It doesn’t feel as though another striker should be a priority given Bryan Mbeumo’s versatility. That stance could change if Joshua Zirkzee departs amid links to AS Roma.
If Zirkzee were to depart, the Reds could swoop for Julian Alvarez, whose Atletico Madrid future is uncertain. The Argentine attacker has been at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano since 2024.
Alvarez joined Atletico from Manchester City in an £81m deal. He has been a key man under Diego Simeone, posting 12 goals and six assists in 34 games this season.
The 26-year-old has been the subject of speculation over a potential summer exit. Spanish outlet SPORT claims United are linked with the 2022 World Cup winner, along with Arsenal and Chelsea.
Alvarez is familiar with the Premier League, having spent around two years with cross-city rivals City. He grew frustrated while playing backup to Erling Haaland at the Etihad.
The Argentine made 103 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side, bagging 36 goals and 19 assists. He was a member of the Cityzens’ team that won the treble in 2023.
Alvarez’s preference revealed
A potential return to England isn’t Alvarez’s preference as he is eyeing a move to Barcelona should he leave Atletico. The Catalans will have to replace Robert Lewandowski sooner rather than later as he enters the twilight years of his career.
Alvarez is thought to be valued at around £100m, which is a hefty fee despite his obvious talent. Manchester United have other areas of their team to address, and splashing out that much money on another attacker seems unrealistic.
The former City man is said to be aware of Premier League interest, but he would prefer a move to Barca if that door opens. The Red Devils were keeping tabs on the Argentine during his time at River Plate but didn’t make a move before their neighbours came calling in early 2022.
