Manchester United’s transfer business is complete, with a busy 2025-26 transfer window in the books.
After failing to qualify for European football this season, expectations for Manchester United’s transfer window were more modest than usual.
A triple-deal for Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo has breathed new life into United’s attack, while also answering questions on the club’s spending power.
Amid that positive outlook, Ineos do not get a total free pass for the transfer window. Here is a look at three risks that United could pay for…
Senne Lammens applauds fans at Antwerp
Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/Belga/AFP via Getty Images
Leaving the goalkeeper situation until last
Senne Lammens is a Manchester United player after a deal worth £18 million was agreed on transfer deadline day.
Manchester United should have sorted this situation a lot earlier. Andre Onana’s pre-season injury in July was the perfect prompt to do so.
The weaknesses of Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir are no sudden surprise. Yet Manchester United chose to go into the season with the pair.
Bayindir cost United in the opening game, before Onana’s disaster against Grimsby. Bayindir almost made United pay with another error against Burnley.
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The problems may have heightened the search for a new goalkeeper, but this should have been treated with more urgency.
No new midfielder signed at all
If there is one area that costs Manchester United this season, it is very clear that it will be the midfield.
2024/25 was all about strengthening defence. 2025/16 saw United strengthen in goal and in attack. But the central area is a work in progress.
Casemiro is into his final year, Manuel Ugarte has not worked out, while Bruno Fernandes dropping back into the role has marginalised Kobbie Mainoo.
United were interested in signing Carlos Baleba from Brighton, but approaches were blocked by the Seagulls.
United’s alternative was to sign nobody. It is a risk that could end up costing Ruben Amorim, and needs addressing next summer.
Rasmus Hojlund warming up for Manchester United.
Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images
Rasmus Hojlund exit with permanent clause
Manchester United signed one 22-year-old striker, bringing in Benjamin Sesko for £66 million. This move facilitated the exit of Rasmus Hojlund, now also 22.
The moves were a clear indication United feel Sesko is the superior option – but is there any guarantee it pans out this way over the next five to 10 years?
United have sent Hojlund out on loan, with a £38 million purchase clause if Napoli qualify for the Champions League next season.
If the Dane has a strong season in Italy, this fee may end up looking low, and taking Hojlund off the books on a permanent basis.
Long-term this still might become an exit United regret for years to come.