Manchester United transfer news as the need for new signings is laid bare on the opening weekend of the season
Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick(Image: George Wood/Getty Images)
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The urgent requirement for new additions was brutally exposed as Manchester United endured the worst possible beginning to the new campaign.
The dismal 2-0 loss against newly promoted Hull highlighted just how much more work needs doing before the transfer window closes on September 1. A new left-back is sought after, with United being linked with a potential move for Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly and Newcastle's Lewis Hall.
United have thus far strengthened their midfield through the arrivals of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, while Carlos Baleba is en route from Brighton.
With the Champions League now on the agenda, it is vital that United reinforce in multiple positions. Ahead of a pivotal fortnight for the club, here's a summary of the latest United transfer developments.
Villa interest
Aston Villa have reportedly made contact with United regarding the availability of Joshua Zirkzee, who looks set to depart following a disappointing stint at Old Trafford.
Zirkzee has been heavily linked with a switch to Napoli, but that move has stalled as the Serie A club need to offload a player first. That has created an opportunity for other potential buyers.
Joshua Zirkzee playing for Manchester United in pre-season
Zirkzee could stay in the Premier League(Image: David Lidstrom/Getty Images)
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According to Fabrizio Romano, they include Villa, whose squad has been significantly overhauled this summer, with the likes of Lucas Digne, Morgan Rogers and Ezri Konsa leaving, along with Tielemans.
Numerous new signings have arrived, including former United duo Alejandro Garnacho and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Romano revealed Villa had recently "made a call" about Zirkzee. He added that their interest was at an early stage.
United priced out
United's reasoning for not pursuing a deal for Lewis-Skelly has reportedly come to light. The adaptable Gunners player has attracted interest from both United and Chelsea.
Arsenal were transparent about the possibility of his departure, but their asking price ultimately led United to abandon discussions. That's according to The Athletic's David Ornstein, who reported the figure quoted was "too high" for United, who subsequently redirected their focus towards long-standing target Baleba.
Myles Lewis-Skelly of Arsenal talks on the phone as he inspects the pitch prior to the Pre-Season Friendly match between Arsenal FC and AC Milan at National Stadium on July 23, 2025 in Singapore.
United have move on from Myles Lewis-Skelly(Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
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Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has since stated he is "100 per cent" certain Lewis-Skelly will remain at the club. Hall is another left-back on United's radar, but once again, they have been deterred by the price tag.
Hall is now reportedly in discussions over a fresh Newcastle contract and a position within the players' leadership group under new manager Matthias Jaissle.