Manchester United have been a club on the decline over the last couple of years, with last season one to forget for everyone involved with the football club.
The Red Devils finished in a measly 15th place in the Premier League, registering their lowest-ever points tally since the division’s formation back in 1992.
However, Ruben Amorim will undoubtedly be hoping to transform the squad during his first pre-season at the helm, looking to make his 3-4-2-1 system effective at Old Trafford.
ruben amorim -1
After taking the reins back in November, he was unable to take the club to new heights, but there’s hope that with investment from the hierarchy he can return them to their former glory.
Countless players have been linked with a move to join the Red Devils this window, potentially offering an upgrade on the players currently at Amorim’s disposal.
The latest on United’s hunt for new talents this summer
Over the last couple of days, PSG star Fabian Ruiz has emerged as a potential target for the Red Devils, even making a £43m bid for the Spanish international.
He’s not the only midfielder on their shortlist during this summer transfer window, with Inter Milan star Davide Frattesi also subject to an enquiry over a potential deal to join Amorim’s side.
fabian-ruiz-psg-premier-league
However, another name has been thrown into the mix in recent days, with Juventus star Douglas Luiz a player firmly in their sights, according to GIVEMESPORT.
The report claims that the Red Devils have been in talks with the Italian outfit over a move for the Brazilian, who only made 27 appearances across all competitions in 2024/25.
It also states that the 27-year-old is open to a move back to England this summer after failing to nail his place down in the Juve side after his £42m move from Aston Villa last summer.
Why United’s £42m star would be Cunha 2.0 for Amorim
Despite their lowly league finish last campaign, United have still demonstrated their pulling power in the transfer market, completing a £62.5m deal for Matheus Cunha.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' Matheus Cunha celebrates
The 26-year-old has been a leading star in the Premier League over the last couple of years, registering 15 goals and six assists for Wolverhampton Wanderers last time around.
It remains to be seen if he will feature in a number ten or number nine role in 2025/26, but his versatility could prove to be vital in Amorim’s free-flowing and interchanging system.
Undoubtedly, the price tag would bring added pressure on his shoulders at Old Trafford, but if he can replicate his success elsewhere, there’s no reason why he can’t become a fan-favourite in the near future.
He could be joined at the club by Luiz, following suit and becoming the next version of the attacker, given his experience in the division during his time as a professional.
douglas-luiz-juventus-champions-league
Both players, who are from Brazil, have the capability to fire home from distance, as seen by their respective goal catalogues from recent seasons.
Former United captain Roy Keane has previously sung Luiz’s praises, labelling the midfielder as “quality”, something which is reflected in his underlying stats in 2024/25.
Douglas Luiz's stats for Juventus in Serie A (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Progressive passes
Progressive carries
Tackles won
Tackle success rate
Take-on success
Aerials won
Stats via FBref
The Brazilian has registered 5.9 progressive passes per 90, with 2.7 progressive carries per 90, showcasing his talents in driving forward and finding a teammate at any given opportunity.
He’s also won 2.1 tackles per 90 with the Old Lady, winning 68% of the dispossession attempts he’s entered, often liking to break up the play before handing chances to those around him.
Luiz has further impressed, as seen by his take-on success rate of 79%, and 56% of aerials won, having the all-round talent to thrive under Amorim’s guidance.
It’s unclear how much a deal for the Brazilian could cost this summer, but it’s becoming clear that he could be sent in the opposite direction in any deal for Jadon Sancho.
douglas-luiz-juventus
He’s proven that he’s capable of thriving in England’s top-flight, matching Cunha’s achievements and subsequently bringing the next version of his compatriot to Old Trafford.
Man-Utd-Ruiz-Mbeumo Related
[Mbeumo will love him: Man Utd submit £43m bid to sign "phenomenal" star](https://www.footballfancast.com/mbeumo-will-love-him-man-utd-submit-bid-to-sign-fabian-ruiz/ "Mbeumo will love him: Man Utd submit £43m bid to sign "phenomenal" star")
Manchester United appear to be making key moves in the transfer window ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.