“I had a conversation with Erik ten Hag, and we assured him that we are committed to securing the services of the world’s top defenders and offloading surplus players this January,” states Manchester United, prepared for a defensive overhaul with four significant acquisitions and four departures as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plan.

“I had a conversation with Erik ten Hag, and we assured him that we are committed to securing the services of the world’s top defenders and offloading surplus players this January,” states Manchester United, prepared for a defensive overhaul with four significant acquisitions and four departures as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plan.

Manchester United is reportedly poised to revamp their defense following the anticipated arrival of minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The club is awaiting Premier League approval for Ratcliffe’s 25% investment, and preparations for the petrochemical billionaire’s tenure seem to be underway. The deal, expected to be approved in February, will grant Ratcliffe control over football operations at Old Trafford. INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford has been participating in meetings at Carrington during the interim, focusing on key recruitment appointments. Meanwhile, football director John Murtough and manager Erik ten Hag are already planning the club’s summer transfer activities.

According to ESPN reports, Manchester United is gearing up for a significant restructuring of their defense, with plans for three players to depart and three potential replacements. There is uncertainty about Raphael Varane’s future amid suggestions that United opted not to activate a one-year extension in his contract, potentially allowing the World Cup winner to leave for free in June. Additionally, Jonny Evans, initially brought in as short-term cover at the beginning of the season, is now out of contract. There are also speculations that Victor Lindelöf and Harry Maguire might depart if substantial offers are presented.

Moreover, there are reports suggesting that United may seek to fill the defensive positions with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, and Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo. Additionally, the United hierarchy is said to hold admiration for Galatasaray right-back Sacha Boey, who made a strong impression in both Champions League encounters against Ten Hag’s team this season. United is also reportedly focusing on players whose contracts are set to expire in June 2025, aiming to capitalize on similar situations that led to the arrival of Mason Mount from Chelsea when he entered the final year of his contract.