Manchester United look set for a huge summer of investment as Sir Jim Ratcliffe bids to get them back to the top of domestic and European football. INEOS chief Ratcliffe's minority stake was officially confirmed last month and he has already taken complete control of footballing operations.
Investment in Old Trafford and Carrington will be welcomed by supporters, but Ratcliffe's influence will ultimately be judged on the pitch and so this summer will prove crucial in defining his tenure. Funds will not be infinite at United but a number of high-profile arrivals are expected.
As many as 13 first-team players could be moved on to make way for some big-money signings, with improvements desired across the pitch. Links are already doing the rounds and will only intensify this summer, so with that in mind, ManchesterWorld has put together a dream starting-XI and bench if said rumours are true.
1. GK: Andre Onana
Cameroon international has looked more assured in recent weeks after a shaky start to life at United.
2. RB: Jeremie Frimpong
United were in talks with the 23-year-old last summer and remain keen. Currently on course to help Bayer Leverkusen win the Bundesliga with eight goals and six assists in 23 appearances.
3. Nice's French defender #06 Jean-Clair Todibo (R) fights for the ball with Brest's Beninese forward #09 Steve Mounie (L) during the French L1 football match between OGC Nice and Stade Brestois 29 at the Allianz Riviera Stadium in Nice, south-eastern France, on October 1, 2023. (Photo by Valery HACHE / AFP) (Photo by VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images)
A long-term target of United's and expected to leave OGC Nice this summer. Fits the younger age profile at 24 and has the physical attributes to play under Ten Hag. Would be a great Raphael Varane replacement.
4. LCB: Lisandro Martinez
Injuries permitting, the Argentinian has been one of the first names on the team sheet when available. Arguably the only current centre-back not expected to leave in the summer.