Manchester United's issues are far from resolved despite a potentially transformative summer transfer window at Old Trafford. The majority of players who were either keen to depart or considered surplus to requirements have now exited M16, easing the Reds' wage bill.
The new recruits, on the whole, have made a promising start. Matheus Cunha has been turning heads with his performances, while Bryan Mbeumo demonstrated resilience against Burnley following an unfortunate penalty miss against Grimsby Town that saw United ousted from the League Cup. Benjamin Sesko's early form in a Reds shirt may be cause for concern, but patience is required with the late-arriving Slovenian.
Although the transfer window for most European clubs is shut until January, it won't be long before attention shifts to where Ruben Amorim's squad needs further bolstering. There may also be speculation about potential free agent acquisitions.
From January, clubs can enter into pre-contract agreements and free transfers with overseas players whose contracts expire next summer. The goalkeeper position is one that will likely be revisited
Senne Lammens' arrival on deadline day does not completely resolve United's goalkeeping dilemma. If their lacklustre performance persists, neither Andre Onana nor Altay Bayindir will have secure futures at M16, and Tom Heaton will be turning 40 next year.
There are doubts over whether Lammens, at the tender age of 23, can handle such a high-pressure role. It's why a more seasoned option should be contemplated.
AC Milan's goalkeeper Mike Maignan could be a fantastic acquisition on a free transfer, having shone for the Italian titans since his move from Lille in 2021. United's attempt to sign a keeper from another Milan club, Inter's Onana, may not have been successful yet, but Maignan's shot-stopping prowess surpasses that of the Cameroonian.
Meanwhile, Amorim's midfield continues to be a significant concern, and Brighton's Carlos Baleba is likely to catch the Reds' attention next summer after being deterred by his £100million plus price tag last month.
However, a more affordable alternative might be ex-Wolves star Ruben Neves. The Portuguese is currently playing his football in Saudi Arabia and would almost certainly need to accept a substantial wage cut to join United.
Turning 29 in March might also discourage the Reds, who have been focusing on younger talent under Ineos. However, his Premier League experience, passing range, and suitability for the defensive midfield role are exactly what United require.
Even a short-term contract could provide numerous advantages to United, who need quick results in this fast-paced world.
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