27 shrewd free agents available to Man Utd this summer as Ruben Amorim faces major rebuild with limited funds

Manchester United face a major rebuild this summer and their hopes of European football completely hinge on their success in the Europa League. The Red Devils lost 4-1 at Newcastle United on Sunday as their forgettable Premier League campaign hit a new low.

The Magpies have not done the league double over the Old Trafford club since 1931 but Sunday’s win ended that 94-year run. They head into Thursday’s Europa League quarter final second leg against Lyon level at 2-2 after they conceded a late equaliser in the first leg in France. It came after two mistakes from goalkeeper Andre Onana who was left out of Sunday’s squad against Newcastle.

Manchester World understands that United only have a small initial budget heading into the summer as they are currently preparing for next season with the anticipation of no European football. They are hoping to offload some big earners and sign lower-cost options. They will still have some budget for a couple of signings. As United look to next campaign, there are a number of talented players from across Europe available on a free transfer as things stand.

Goalkeepers and defence

Onana’s future has been brought into question in recent weeks. United were linked with a move for David de Gea but he is poised to have his contract extended at Fiorentina. Meanwhile, Freddie Woodman is linked with a move to the club, most likely as a back-up option.

In defence, they have signed a right-wing back in Patrick Dorgu. The Red Devils could look to add another centre back to their squad alongside a left wing-back. Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof are both set to leave the club as free agents this summer.

Six goalkeepers available for free this summer: Alex Meret (Napoli), Walter Benitez (PSV Eindhoven), Leo Jardim (Vasco de Gama), Berke Ozer (Eyupspor), Vitezslav Jaros (Liverpool), Maxime Crepeau (Portland).

Seven defenders available for free this summer: Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen), Tyrick Mitchell (Crystal Palace), Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest), Kyle Walker-Peters (Southampton), Kenny Tete (Fulham), Olivier Boscagli (PSV Eindhoven), CJ Egan-Riley (Burnley)

Midfield

There’s due to be an overhaul in United’s midfield too as United want to move Casemiro on. He is one of the club’s highest earners and will have one year remaining on his deal come the summer. Moving his salary off the wage bill could free up crucial funds to sign new players.

Christian Eriksen will also leave Old Trafford. He confirmed during his latest appearances on international duty with Denmark that he was making plans away from the Red Devils next year. There is also the possibility that Kobbie Mainoo could leave the club due to United’s financial situation. He reportedly wants a major payrise in a new contract, which the club are said to be unwilling to match. The Red Devils would only consider a sale of £70m or more but it is not a deal they would sanction without reluctance or one that would be well received by supporters.

Seven midfielders available for free this summer: Frank Anguissa (Napoli), Kevin De Bruyne (Man City), Angel Gomes (Lille), Thomas Partey (Arsenal), Josh Brownhill (Burnley), Mario Pasalic (Atalanta), Marco Verratti (Al-Arabi SC).

Forwards

A new striker is regarded as an absolute priority for United this summer while they could also look to sign somebody to play in behind a number nine. Liam Delap is their top target when it comes to the position. Rasmus Hojlund has endured a disappointing campaign in front of goal while Joshua Zirkzee has had a slightly better season following his move from Serie A side Bologna last summer.

Seven forwards available for free this summer: Jonathan David (Lille), Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton), Callum Wilson (Newcastle United), Adama Traore (Fulham), Krepin Diatta (Monaco), Roony Bardghji (FC Copenhagen).