Manchester United had a relatively quiet winter transfer window, making just one major signing. The club were linked with several names at the start of the year, but the finances were limited. Patrick Dorgu was signed from Lecce and was the only high-profile acquisition for the Red Devils.
United are likely to back manager Ruben Amorim with more funds in the summer, but a massive spending spree is unlikely unless the club qualifies for the Champions League. A top-four or top-five finish in the Premier League seems challenging at the moment, and United may have to win the Europa League to secure a Champions League spot for the next season.
Considering this scenario, the club hierarchy could explore free transfer signings for the summer. Here are three notable names that United could pursue in the coming weeks:
## Jonathan Tah – Bayer Leverkusen
The Germany international has been fantastic in the middle of the back three for Leverkusen, but his future is uncertain with his contract expiring at the end of June. Tah, described as ‘one of the world’s best’ by Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso, has been linked with the likes of Bayern Munich and Barcelona in recent months.
United could swoop for Tah’s services, with Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans poised to leave on free transfers. The duo have their contracts expiring on June 30, and United have no plans to extend their stays. Tah’s experience of playing in a 3-4-2-1 formation would suit the Red Devils and Amorim’s tactics, making it a logical decision to open talks over a pre-contract agreement.
## Angel Gomes – Lille
Gomes left United to secure regular first-team football with Lille. He had a slow start at the French outfit, but has become a key player over the past couple of campaigns. The 24-year-old can operate from the central and attacking midfield roles, and has impressed for England since his debut last year.
Gomes has opened the door for a reunion with United. There is bound to be plenty of Premier League interest, but the Red Devils could have an upper hand if they make an offer. The midfielder earns £11,500 per week at Lille, and a package of £100,000 weekly alongside a signing-on fee could secure his return to Old Trafford.
United stand to save around £500,000 per week from the anticipated departures of midfield duo Christian Eriksen and Casemiro at the end of the ongoing campaign. Gomes could be one of the first signings of the summer for the Red Devils.
## Jonathan David – Lille
The Canada international has been one of the most consistent strikers in the French top-flight, netting 20 goals and registering five assists from 35 games this term. Lille decided against a mid-season sale of David, and he is now expected to leave on a free transfer with no negotiations ongoing over a new deal beyond the end of June.
David’s big-game ability has been questioned in the past, but he has proved his credentials this campaign with six goals and one assist during the Champions League’s league phase. He should be in demand in the coming months, and United need to sign a marquee striker such as Viktor Gyokeres.
If either Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee were to leave this summer, United could look into a free transfer agreement for David to bolster their attacking options.
Don’t miss out on the chance to strengthen your squad with these potential free transfer targets. Stay tuned for more updates on Manchester United’s transfer plans.
