MU Transfers: Big Questions for Carrick

MU has completed two notable signings: Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, while also bringing in goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer to serve as backup for Senne Lammens.

However, Michael Carrick and MU's management still face a series of squad issues, from whether to continue adding midfielders, searching for a new left-back, to the future of Marcus Rashford.

Should MU continue to buy more midfielders?

MU's acquisition of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans resulted from several changes in their transfer plans. Initially, the Old Trafford club prioritized signing Ederson from Atalanta. However, a medical examination revealed that the Brazilian midfielder had knee issues, forcing MU to cancel the deal despite both parties being very close to an agreement.

Shortly after, target Elliott Anderson decided to join Manchester City, while Mateus Fernandes became too expensive as Tottenham kept raising the price. Facing the risk of spending over £80 million on a midfielder, MU's management opted for a safer approach by bringing in Santos and Tielemans.

According to the original plan, the "Red Devils" would sign another midfielder if Manuel Ugarte left. However, a serious knee injury that the Uruguayan international suffered during the World Cup made a transfer almost impossible. This forced MU to reconsider how to use their remaining budget.

One of the reasons Carrick hasn't rushed to spend more is the progress of Mason Mount. In the summer friendlies against Wrexham, Rosenborg, and especially the 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid, the English midfielder was deployed in a deeper role, alongside Andrey Santos in the center of midfield. Mount showed effective ball distribution, pressing, and support in building play.

If he maintains this form, Carrick could have four quality options in midfield: Santos, Tielemans, Kobbie Mainoo, and Mount. In that case, the remaining budget would be prioritized for more urgent positions.

Nevertheless, this approach still carries significant risks. Since moving to Old Trafford from Chelsea for around £60 million in summer 2023, Mount has never maintained consistent fitness. If Mount suffers another injury, Carrick will quickly face a lack of depth in the midfield area.

Left-back and the Rashford puzzle

If the midfield can be temporarily settled, the left flank is the area that gives Carrick the biggest headache.

Patrick Dorgu is being used more as a left winger to take advantage of his attacking support, while Harry Amass is likely to be loaned out or transferred to gain experience. This means Luke Shaw is currently the only natural left-back in the first team.

Last season, Shaw surprisingly started all 38 league matches. However, that achievement came in the context of MU not having to compete in the Champions League and being eliminated early from domestic cup competitions. With a packed schedule ahead, it will be very difficult for the 31-year-old defender to maintain that intensity.

Carrick has tested several options during the preseason. Leny Yoro was shifted to right-back to allow Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui to cover the left side when needed. Lisandro Martinez is also capable of playing there, but these are all temporary solutions.

On MU's watchlist, Lewis Hall is a highly rated name. The 21-year-old Newcastle full-back possesses pace, comprehensive attacking and defensive abilities, and fits Carrick's football philosophy. However, after Newcastle parted ways with Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, and faced the risk of losing Bruno Guimaraes, the likelihood of them selling Hall is low unless they receive an exceptionally large offer.

A more realistic option is Antonee Robinson of Fulham. The US international just had an impressive World Cup and is highly regarded for his excellent stamina and effective attacking support. Additionally, Myles Lewis-Skelly of Arsenal remains on the watchlist due to his versatility, being able to play both left-back and central midfield. Giorgio Scalvini of Atalanta is also a player MU is interested in thanks to his ability to play multiple defensive positions.

Alongside strengthening the squad, MU must also resolve the future of Marcus Rashford. After Barcelona decided not to activate the buy option despite the English striker scoring 14 goals during his loan spell at the Catalan club, Rashford will return to Carrington to rejoin the team. MU's stance is clear: if a suitable offer comes in, the club is ready to sell Rashford outright rather than loan him out again. Parting ways with a player earning around £325,000 per week would not only bring in a significant transfer fee but also free up financial space to strengthen the squad.