‘A Clear Idea’ – Man Utd’s Transfer Strategy for 2025

Amorim Targets Proven Attackers Amid Summer Rebuild

Manchester United are moving fast in the transfer market as head coach Ruben Amorim seeks to reshape his squad ahead of pre-season in July — and he says he already has “a clear idea” of what he wants.

United have already agreed a deal for Wolves striker Matheus Cunha and opened talks with Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, while Bruno Fernandes has opted to stay despite a massive offer from Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal.

Young, Hungry – But Also Premier League-Ready

United’s initial focus under Amorim is to bring in young, hungry talents who can improve under his guidance — like Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven — but that won’t be enough.

Amorim’s top priority is attacking reinforcements, and he wants players who are ready to deliver immediately.

“We are a bit limited and can’t do it all in one summer,” said Amorim. “But there is a clear picture for what we want.”

Cunha and Mbeumo — who scored 35 Premier League goals combined last season — are seen as Premier League-proven and capable of making an instant impact. This marks a shift from previous signings like Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who were seen as longer-term projects.

“United has become a difficult place for new signings in the last 10 years,” said Gary Neville. “Players like Cunha and Mbeumo have the experience and mentality to hit the ground running.”

The Bruno Boost & Squad Trim Ahead

Rasmus Hojlund ended the 2024-25 season with two goals in his final 13 games after the March international break

While many thought Fernandes might leave, he’s staying — a huge boost, albeit one that brings financial pressure in a season without European football.

Amorim is willing to work with a smaller squad, and sales are expected.

Three Types of Outgoings:

1. Unwanted by Amorim:

   • Jadon Sancho, Antony, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho

2. Valuable but Underperforming:

   • Casemiro, Zirkzee, Højlund

3. Sale Possible at Right Price:

   • Numerous squad players United would sell if the bid is right.

But moving players out won’t be easy.

Sancho, for example, rejected reduced terms at Chelsea. If he won’t lower his demands and Amorim doesn’t want him, United may need to pay him to leave — a scenario that part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to avoid repeating.

The same financial dilemma applies to Antony and Rashford, who have failed to justify their high wages and price tags.

A Crucial Summer for United’s Project

With technical director Jason Wilcox and negotiator Matt Hargreaves leading the business side, United must now execute — both on signings and sales.

Their success will define how much progress Amorim can realistically make in 2025–26, as the club tries to bounce back without the distraction of European competition — but also without the revenue it brings.