Manchester United supporters have been given a clearer picture of the club’s plans for the upcoming summer transfer window, courtesy of insights from renowned transfer expert David Ornstein.
With the Red Devils enduring a somewhat underwhelming campaign, particularly in front of goal, it has been widely anticipated that bolstering their attacking options would be the club’s main objective.
Speaking to NBC Sports, Ornstein provided details on Manchester United’s recruitment drive, stating unequivocally that “the priority for Manchester United in this upcoming transfer window is attack.”
He elaborated, revealing that the club’s primary focus lies on acquiring both a “centre-forward and a No.10.”
Ornstein further indicated that Manchester United are keen to act swiftly in the transfer market, and crucially, the “finances are in place, as I understand it, to do the deals they would like to do.”
He also noted that their transfer activity is not contingent on securing European football next season or on player sales.
Turning to specific targets, Ornstein identified Matheus Cunha of Wolverhampton Wanderers as Manchester United’s top priority for the No.10 role.
The Brazilian forward reportedly has a £62.5 million release clause.
Ornstein added that while Cunha is keen on a move to Old Trafford, personal terms would still need to be negotiated, which is not a guaranteed formality.
In the striker department, Ornstein named Liam Delap of Ipswich Town as Manchester United’s “No.1 target.” Delap has a £30 million release clause that becomes active if Ipswich are relegated from the Premier League.
However, Ornstein highlighted that Manchester United face competition for the young striker’s signature, with Chelsea among the other interested clubs.
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He anticipates that Delap will make a decision on his future before the upcoming European U21 Championship.
Addressing speculation surrounding other potential attacking targets, Ornstein definitively stated that “if Manchester United are to look at others, I’m assured it will not be Victor Osimhen.”
He clarified that despite numerous reports linking the Napoli striker to Old Trafford, Osimhen “is not on the agenda for Manchester United.”
Ornstein suggested that the club may explore alternative options if their primary targets prove unattainable or choose to rely on internal solutions, such as developing current striker Rasmus Hojlund, while focusing on strengthening other areas of the squad.
Ornstein’s insights provide Manchester United fans with a clearer understanding of the club’s strategic approach to the summer transfer window, with a strong emphasis on injecting more firepower into their attacking ranks through the potential acquisitions of Matheus Cunha and Liam Delap.