Lille striker Jonathan David has confirmed he will leave Lille.placeholder image
Lille striker Jonathan David has confirmed he will leave Lille. | AFP via Getty Images
The free agent market is more competitive than ever due to PSR and this is who Man Utd should target this summer.
Man Utd have gone into this summer with a lot of work to do; players to sell and even more to sign to give Ruben Amorim the tools he needs to succeed. The transfer budget could be helped with players like Antony and Jadon Sancho being sold, just because they have been deemed not good enough for United, it doesn’t mean that they won’t still be in demand elsewhere, as long as their wages can be met.
With PSR a nuisance factor in the background United won’t be able to just splash the cash, but one way that they could add quality without breaking the bank is via the free agent market. Here are the top players who could make a difference at Old Trafford without splurging the transfer budget.
Three free agents who could make Man Utd impact
Tyrick Mitchell
One of United’s biggest problems last season was consistency of selection, especially in defence and even more so at left-back. Luke Shaw’s ability has never been questioned, however, his body isn’t capable of staying fit for a 50 game season.
Compare and contrast with Tyrick Mitchell who barely missed a game for Crystal Palace and who can count Atletico Madrid amongst his suitors. If Diego Simeone rates him, then there is a player there.
United already made that mistake when they signed Mason Mount instead of Connor Gallagher and wouldn’t even have to pay a fee for the 25-year old.
Olivier Boscagli
One of the many problems with United last season was the number of goals being conceded and a lack of balance in the defence. As a natural left-footer, Olivier Boscagli could slot in perfectly on the left of a three and is equally as adept at left-back too, should Amorim decide to change shape.
He’s just left PSV Eindhoven after playing over 40 times last season and with a second Eredivisie title in his back pocket, the 27-year old Frenchman has also barely missed a game since the 2021/22 campaign.
An upgrade to the forward line without breaking the bank
Jonathan David
Rasmus Hojlund has addressed speculation about his future and it is no surprise to see United linked with a host of strikers already. Gyokeres is the obvious name given his connection to Amorim, however, Victor Osimhem’s proven ability to score goals and lead his team to titles is also an attractive proposition for a similar fee.
As shown with previously successful teams at Old Trafford, it takes more than one striker to win leagues and silverware and a free transfer move for Jonathan David of Lille could add goals without the need to spend big.
At 25, he still has his peak years ahead of him, not only this, but with 25 goals and 12 assists for the French cracks this season, he could be the instant impact that Amorim needs to get off to a flyer next season. Three players who would all improve Manchester United’s starting XI, none of which require a transfer fee and help to keep the shadow of PSR away.
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