Manchester United are looking at ways to revamp their style of play next season and it could see Erik ten Hag return to a familiar formation from his time at Ajax.
Technical director Jason Wilcox will work in partnership with Ten Hag and his coaches to implement a clear game model and football methodology across the men’s first team and academy.
United are looking to add high quality players in the summer transfer window who will not only raise the levels at Old Trafford, but who will seamlessly fit into the system without affecting their level of performance.
Joshua Zirkzee has already been signed while the club are close to completing a deal for Leny Yoro as well. They will also target a defensive midfielder, another centre-back, a left-back and another attack-minded player if possible.
It means United should have a lot more options heading into the new campaign and they could even have the possibility of playing a double pivot, or 'double diamond', to give them a lot more fluidity in matches.
Here is a look at how that would line up next season:
1. GK - Andre Onana
United see the goalkeeper playing a key role in their side next season with an added emphasis on playing out from the back. | Manchester United via Getty Images Photo: Manchester United via Getty Images
2. CB - Leny Yoro
Yoro is set to sign for United this summer with the vision of becoming a regular starter in central defence. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: AFP via Getty Images
3. CB - Lisandro Martinez
His ability to play out from the back will be integral to making this tactical approach succeed. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: AFP via Getty Images
4. RB - Diogo Dalot
A player Ten Hag can rely upon every week. He would be required to do a lot of attacking in this approach. | Manchester United via Getty Images Photo: Manchester United via Getty Images