“Manchester United Set to Sell Big, With Only Three Players Off-Limits This Summer.”

“Manchester United Set to Sell Big, With Only Three Players Off-Limits This Summer.”

 

 

 

Manchester United Set to Sell Big, With Only Three Players Off-Limits This Summer

 

Manchester United are preparing for one of the most significant squad overhauls in the club’s modern history. As the Red Devils seek to recover from a turbulent season marred by inconsistency, injuries, and underperformance, insiders suggest the club is open to offers for nearly every player in the current squad—with just three deemed untouchable.

 

The radical approach reflects not only the growing pressure on United to return to elite status but also the club’s new strategic direction under INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s sporting leadership. With Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions looming large and a need to balance books ahead of fresh investments, United are poised to enter a “sell-to-buy” phase.

 

A Squad Reset Years in the Making

 

For years, Manchester United’s bloated squad has been a source of frustration for fans and pundits alike. Expensive signings have failed to live up to expectations, wages have spiraled, and the team’s identity has blurred. The need for a reset has never been more apparent.

 

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival has ushered in a more ruthless, merit-based approach. The message from the top is clear: sentimentality will no longer dictate player retention. The only players currently viewed as untouchable are Rasmus Højlund, Alejandro Garnacho, and Kobbie Mainoo—three rising stars seen as the foundation of a new era.

 

The Three Pillars: Garnacho, Mainoo, and Højlund

 

Kobbie Mainoo

 

At just 19, Mainoo has been a revelation in midfield. Calm on the ball, intelligent in positioning, and fearless in big moments, he represents the kind of academy success story United hope to replicate. With comparisons already being made to club legends like Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes, Mainoo is viewed as central to the club’s tactical rebuild.

 

Alejandro Garnacho

 

The Argentine winger, just 20 years old, has been one of the bright sparks in an otherwise disappointing campaign. His ability to beat defenders, his work ethic, and knack for big moments—like his spectacular goal against Everton—have made him a fan favorite. More importantly, his value and ceiling are sky-high, making him a core part of United’s future plans.

 

Rasmus Højlund

 

Despite a mixed debut season, the Danish striker has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in Europe. His physical profile, finishing ability, and mentality make him an ideal project striker. With the right service and coaching, United believe he can become one of the Premier League’s top forwards. He remains firmly in the “not for sale” category.

 

Everyone Else: Up for Review

 

Outside of those three, virtually every player in the first-team squad could be moved on this summer if the right offer arrives. Here’s a breakdown of the most high-profile names likely to be sold or loaned out:

 

Casemiro

 

The Brazilian midfielder arrived with great fanfare in 2022 but has struggled with fitness and form this season. At 32 and earning north of £300,000 a week, Casemiro’s wages are unsustainable under FFP scrutiny. A move to Saudi Arabia appears likely, with multiple clubs expressing interest.

 

Raphaël Varane

 

Varane’s contract is set to expire, and with no extension currently planned, his exit seems inevitable. Though still a classy defender when fit, his injury record has limited his impact. United are prepared to let him go to free up wages and space for younger options.

 

Jadon Sancho

 

Frozen out after a fallout with Erik ten Hag, Sancho’s future is uncertain even if the manager is replaced. Borussia Dortmund are keen on making his loan permanent, though finances remain a hurdle. United will likely have to accept a reduced fee to facilitate the exit.

 

Anthony Martial

 

Out of contract in June and perennially injured, Martial’s time at Old Trafford is coming to an end. Once seen as the future of the attack, his lack of consistency and fitness has finally caught up with him.

 

Harry Maguire & Victor Lindelöf

 

Both center-backs are available for transfer. While Maguire’s form has improved, his wages and profile suggest United would cash in if an acceptable offer arrives. Lindelöf is also considered surplus, especially as United target defensive reinforcements.

 

Scott McTominay

 

Though useful and a decent goal contributor, McTominay does not fit the tactical profile of a modern United midfielder. Several Premier League sides are interested, and he could fetch a solid fee to reinvest.

 

Christian Eriksen & Donny van de Beek

 

Eriksen’s role has diminished significantly, and at 32, he may seek a move to play more regularly. Van de Beek’s time has long been up, with failed loans and injury struggles marking his United stint. He is expected to be sold or released.

 

Mason Greenwood

 

Back from a loan spell at Getafe, Greenwood’s future remains unclear. While talented, his off-field controversy continues to divide opinion within the club and fanbase. United are reportedly leaning toward a permanent sale.

 

Aaron Wan-Bissaka & Diogo Dalot

 

Both full-backs are not guaranteed to stay. Dalot has impressed but may still be sold if a major bid arrives. Wan-Bissaka, meanwhile, has failed to convince the hierarchy of his attacking contribution.

 

What Does This Mean for Recruitment?

 

With a clear-out on the cards, United are preparing for a busy summer in terms of arrivals. The plan is to build a younger, more energetic squad centered around Garnacho, Mainoo, and Højlund. Key targets include:

 

A right-sided center-back, with links to Jean-Clair Todibo and Jarrad Branthwaite.

 

A deep-lying midfielder, to anchor the midfield in the long term.

 

A goalkeeper, depending on André Onana’s future.

 

A creative wide forward or No. 10 to support Højlund.

 

 

United are also looking to make smarter signings—players under 25 with high ceilings and tactical versatility, rather than marquee names with bloated salaries.

 

A Club at a Crossroads

 

This summer feels different for Manchester United. In past years, big names were retained for commercial appeal or based on past reputation. Now, the club is prioritizing footballing merit, financial responsibility, and long-term planning.

 

For fans, this might mean seeing some familiar faces depart—but it also signals a renewed sense of purpose. If executed correctly, this clear-out could set the stage for United to finally build a squad capable of challenging the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool.

 

The club’s willingness to embrace change, no matter how drastic, may finally be the spark needed to reignite the Red Devils’ long-dormant ambitions.

 

 

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