Manchester United are gearing up for a busy summer transfer window, with their first new addition already close to being confirmed.
The Red Devils are preparing for a return to Champions League football next season and are keen to get their squad in the best shape possible following the permanent appointment of Michael Carrick.
Despite finishing third in the Premier League this season, United had the luxury of not playing in other competitions and were able to focus on their domestic campaign.
However, they will need to add quality and depth to ensure they do not fall away again when they attempt to compete across a more congested fixture schedule.
Who are Man United targeting?
Man United are already close to confirming the signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with a £38m deal agreed for him to join the squad at Old Trafford.
The midfield rebuild has been a hot topic of conversation at Man United heading into the summer transfer window, and it is unlikely they will stop at just one new Brazilian addition.
Alongside a refresh in the centre of the pitch, the Red Devils are looking to strengthen their full-back positions, with Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall being targeted for the left flank.
However, Hall remains an important part of the Magpies’ plans and the Tynesiders are determined to hold onto their talented full-back this summer, especially after the sale of left winger Anthony Gordon to Barcelona.
As a result, United may be forced to explore alternative options, with Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella reportedly eyeing a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer.
According to Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo, Manchester United are one of several clubs monitoring the Chelsea star’s situation.
The publication claims that Cucurella is keen to prioritise a move to Barcelona this summer, but the La Liga giants must rely on outgoings to create room for the signing.
United are joined by several European heavyweights who are eyeing a possible move for the Spaniard, with local rivals Manchester City named as potential suitors alongside Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.
While clubs will be eager to secure their signings as quickly as possible, Cucurella is relaxed about the situation and is currently focused on the World Cup.
How much will Marc Cucurella cost?
Mundo Deportivo reports that Chelsea value their left-back at between €40m and €50m (£35m-£43m), significantly less than the £60m they paid Brighton and Hove Albion to sign him in 2022.
After years of misdirected recruitment and overspending, Man United are keen to learn from past mistakes by negotiating deals that make sense financially and genuinely improve the future of the squad.
Will Man United sign Marc Cucurella?
The 27-year-old Spain international is an extremely experienced player who possesses the winning mentality and leadership qualities that could make him a valuable addition to the United dressing room next season.
Not only would his Premier League and Champions League experience be welcomed at Old Trafford as the club embarks on the next chapter of its resurgence, but the reported price tag could represent a rare opportunity in the current market to sign a player with talent, experience and a strong work ethic for a relatively modest fee.
If the Manchester giants are serious about signing Cucurella, they will likely need to act fast to avoid losing out to their competitors.
However, with the World Cup beginning this week, it could create a stumbling block in their pursuit.
Cucurella’s future looks increasingly likely to dominate headlines as the summer transfer window progresses.
Manchester United have identified a player capable of improving their squad immediately, but interest from Manchester City and the lure of Barcelona mean there is little margin for error.
If the Red Devils want to win this transfer race, they may need to move quickly before the opportunity slips away.
