Carrick’s side must still face both of their nearest rivals before the campaign concludes. Securing victories in fixtures such as this weekend’s, where they aim to complete a league double over the Eagles, could provide crucial breathing space in the battle for Champions League football.
Should United ultimately finish inside the top four, it may enhance their prospects of securing their primary transfer targets. Last summer, they invested over £200million in players who have featured regularly under both Carrick and his predecessor, Ruben Amorim, though further reinforcements are likely required.
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There’s also the matter of generating additional revenue beyond the wage savings that will materialise when the highest earner, Casemiro, departs at the end of his contract. Below are Express Sport’s latest updates from Old Trafford, including fresh developments on the transfer front.
Two of these potential departures are fairly predictable. Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund could bring in approximately £64m collectively if Barcelona and Napoli activate options included in the pair’s loan arrangements, although the Spanish side are reportedly trying to negotiate down their £26m Rashford clause.
Captain Bruno Fernandes may also be allowed to depart following Saudi Arabian interest, with reports suggesting clubs outside of the Premier League can secure the midfielder for £56.8m. Add a further £48m combined for Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, based on January reports and Transfermarkt valuations, and the finances for a double Forest swoop could be assembled.
Andre Onana is determined to return and compete for his place in Manchester United‘s starting XI, according to The Guardian. The goalkeeper is presently on a season-long loan at Trabzonspor but is unlikely to remain in Turkey past the summer.
Cameroon international Onana arrived as Erik ten Hag‘s number one choice but was allowed to leave on loan following several mistakes last season. United brought in Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp mere days before the former Inter goalkeeper’s exit, and the new shot-stopper has earned recognition from Carrick in recent weeks.
“Senne is quite quiet and unassuming at times, but he’s got a real steel,” Carrick said of Lammens after Monday’s win at Everton. “The jump he made to come here is huge. To take it like he has done and just get on with things speaks volumes about his personality.”