Jump directly to the content
FOURSOME

How Manchester United could line up next season if they land their four top transfer targets

It seems like there will be an overhaul at Old Trafford in the summer, no matter who is in charge

Manchester United have been in excellent form since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over as interim boss but they aren't resting on their laurels.

The Old Trafford hierarchy are well aware the team needs investment despite their resurrection under the Norwegian.

 Ed Woodward is looking to splash the cash this summer no matter who is in charge
6
Ed Woodward is looking to splash the cash this summer no matter who is in charge

It's claimed executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward understands the Man United defence needs to be reworked, especially after their 2-0 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

The loss, which saw Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard forced off through muscle injuries, showcased how the Old Trafford outfit need to tweak their defensive options and add at least one more forward to their arsenal.

It's yet to be decided whether Solskjaer will be the manager to take the club forward into next season on a permanent basis but it appears the players they want to land have been.

So who are the four top targets for Manchester United?

Kalidou Koulibaly (Napoli)

Into his fifth season in Italy, the Senegalese star continues dominate Serie A strikers with his imperious displays in Carlo Ancelotti's backline.

Possessing all the characteristics needed of a modern ball-playing defender, it's no surprise he's wanted at Old Trafford.

He's been a long-term target for the club and could finally end up in the north west of England if Manchester United cough up the £90million which would be needed to sign him.

 Koulibaly has been linked with a number of Europe's top clubs
6
Koulibaly has been linked with a number of Europe's top clubsCredit: Getty

Nikola Milenkovic (Fiorentina)

With Antonio Valencia on the way out of the club and Ashley Young creeping on in age, another full-back is needed to cover the right side along with Diogo Dalot.

The Serbian, who can play at both right-back and centre-back is looking like the top target in this position having excelled in Serie A, just like Koulibaly.

His poor disciplinary record might cause an issue in the Premier League so scouts will have to do their due diligence before a deal is finalised but it seems the Red Devils are keen.

 Fiorentina star Nikola Milenkovic in action.
6
Fiorentina star Nikola Milenkovic in action.Credit: Getty Images

Lucas Hernandez (Atletico Madrid)

Also a top target for Bayern Munich, the French full-back was seemingly set to move for £75million in January thanks to a release clause.

The deal didn't happen but now Manchester United may swoop to beat the Germans in the summer.

He's capable of playing at centre-back too, which is why he's seen as such a valuable asset, while his time under Diego Simeone has made him wily, which could make him perfect for the Premier League.

 Atletico Madrid superstar Lucas Hernandez
6
Atletico Madrid superstar Lucas Hernandez

Douglas Costa (Juventus)

The fact the Red Devils struggled so much without Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial went off against Paris Saint-Germain shows they do need at least one more attacker.

And as we've seen, pace is key. This means the Brazilian star is a sensible target for the club and at £52million he's not a bad price for an experienced competitor in Europe.

 Douglas Costa could be heading to Old Trafford
6
Douglas Costa could be heading to Old Trafford

How will Manchester United line-up?

 Is this the Manchester United team for 2018/19?
6
Is this the Manchester United team for 2018/19?
Topics
cricket exchange