After a 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, Manchester United are on course to return to the Champions League after a season-long absence.
Erik ten Hag’s side have a four-point lead on fifth-placed Liverpool with only three games left, and the elite Europan competition should return to Old Trafford next season.
United’s potential return to the Champions League will likely require some personnel changes designed to provide the Dutch manager with more quality and strength in depth.
While the Red Devils remain hell-bent on signing a new out-and-out striker that will probably cost them a small fortune, they could turn to free agents to strengthen other departments.
Outgoing Borussia Monchengladbach forward Marcus Thuram has already made ten Hag’s shortlist as part of the Dutchman’s effort to reinforce his frontline options.
United would have to outfox stiff competition from Inter Milan and other clubs to land the son of the legendary Juventus defender Lilian Thuram.
Thuram’s versatility could be a massive bonus for the Red Devils next term, considering he can play anywhere alongside the frontline.
But there’s a more pressing matter Man United must address this summer.
With Scott McTominay and Fred failing to meet the Theatre of Dreams’ high standards and both players facing uncertain futures in Manchester, landing a new midfielder could be another priority.
Ten Hag’s decision on the former is still a mystery, but the Brazilian underachiever could wave goodbye to the Premier League following a disappointing five-year spell.
Adrien Rabiot, who has gone from strength to strength for Juventus this season, could be a bargain deal for Man United if the Italians fail to extend his contract in the next few weeks.
Following a challenging adaptation period in Turin, the Frenchman has hit fine form under Massimiliano Allegri this term, turning into one of the best-performing midfielders in Serie A.
In 44 competitive appearances in 2022/23, the 28-year-old has bagged 11 goals and four assists, reminding the world of the talent that made him one of the hottest prospects during his stint at Paris Saint-Germain.
But despite cementing his place in the starting line-up, Rabiot seems reluctant to pledge his future to Juventus and could be on his way out when the summer transfer window opens for business.
At 28, he is at the peak of his powers and has a pedigree of a serial winner, having won three domestic titles with the Bianconeri and the 2020/21 UEFA Nations League with France.
Man United won’t have to pay a fee to lure him to the Premier League, which is an opportunity they shouldn’t pass on, especially considering his technical and tactical quality.
