Manchester United’s Summer Sales Near Double Digits as Midfielder Fred Nears Exit
Manchester United’s Summer Sales Near Double Digits as Midfielder Fred Nears Exit
Manchester United’s summer transfer activity has been marked by significant sales, with the club closing in on double-digit departures. Among the players set to leave is Brazilian midfielder Fred, who is nearing an exit after a five-year stint at Old Trafford. This summer has been a transformative period for Manchester United as they reshape their squad under manager Erik ten Hag.
Fred, who joined Manchester United in the summer of 2018 from Shakhtar Donetsk for a reported fee of £52 million, has been a polarizing figure during his time at the club. Despite his hard work and dedication, Fred has often struggled to find consistent form, leading to mixed reviews from fans and pundits alike.
Under Erik ten Hag’s new regime, Fred’s role in the team has diminished. The Dutch manager has prioritized a more possession-based style of play, which has seen the club invest in other midfielders better suited to his tactical approach. The recent arrivals of Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat have further pushed Fred down the pecking order, making his departure seem inevitable.
Reports indicate that Fulham is in advanced negotiations with Manchester United to sign the Brazilian midfielder. The London-based club, managed by Marco Silva, is keen to bolster their midfield options, and Fred’s experience in the Premier League makes him an attractive option. The transfer fee is expected to be in the region of £15 million, with personal terms reportedly agreed upon between Fred and Fulham.
Reshaping the Squad: Manchester United’s Summer Sales
Fred’s departure is just one of several exits at Manchester United this summer. The club has been active in trimming down the squad, both to generate funds for new signings and to streamline the team in line with Erik ten Hag’s vision.
Key players who have already left the club include:
- David de Gea: The long-serving Spanish goalkeeper, who joined United in 2011, left the club after his contract expired. Despite being offered a new deal, De Gea opted to move on, ending his 12-year association with the club.
- Harry Maguire: The former captain is set to join West Ham United after the two clubs agreed on a £30 million fee. Maguire, who has faced criticism for his performances, saw his playing time reduced under Ten Hag and decided to seek a fresh start in London.
- Donny van de Beek: The Dutch midfielder, who was brought to United by Ole Gunnar Solskjær, has struggled to make an impact. He is set to move to Real Sociedad on a season-long loan with an option to buy.
- Anthony Martial: The French forward, plagued by injuries and inconsistency, is reportedly close to a move to Saudi Arabia, where he could join the growing list of players heading to the Middle East.
Other notable departures include Alex Telles, who has joined Al-Nassr, and Eric Bailly, who is in discussions with several clubs across Europe.
Erik ten Hag’s Vision for Manchester United
Erik ten Hag’s influence on Manchester United’s transfer strategy is evident as the club seeks to build a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League title and competing in Europe. The departures this summer are part of a broader plan to overhaul the squad, bringing in players who fit Ten Hag’s philosophy while offloading those who no longer have a role in the team.
The arrival of players like Rasmus Højlund, André Onana, and the aforementioned Sofyan Amrabat and Mason Mount highlights Ten Hag’s intent to blend youth with experience and tactical versatility. These signings are expected to form the core of a team that can implement the high-pressing, possession-based game that Ten Hag prefers.
In a recent interview, Ten Hag addressed the changes within the squad: “We are building something special here at Manchester United, and that requires making tough decisions. The players who have left have contributed to the club in their own ways, but we have to look forward and create a team that can compete at the highest level. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.”
Looking Ahead: More Changes Expected?
With the summer transfer window still open, more changes could be on the horizon at Old Trafford. Manchester United continues to be linked with several high-profile signings, including a potential move for Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch and Benfica’s Gonçalo Ramos.
At the same time, further departures cannot be ruled out as the club looks to balance the books and create a leaner, more efficient squad. Players like Scott McTominay and Dean Henderson have also been the subject of transfer speculation, and their futures remain uncertain.
Fan Reaction and Club Expectations
The significant turnover in players has led to mixed reactions among Manchester United supporters. While some fans are excited about the new direction under Ten Hag, others have expressed concerns about the loss of experienced players like De Gea and Maguire. However, the general consensus is one of optimism, with many believing that the changes will ultimately benefit the club in the long run.
As Manchester United prepares for the upcoming season, the focus will be on integrating the new signings and ensuring that the team hits the ground running. With a demanding schedule that includes Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and domestic cup competitions, the squad will need to adapt quickly to the new dynamics.
