Manchester United have begun strengthening their squad and have been linked with several other targets during the summer transfer window
Marc Bernal of FC Barcelona
A Barcelona star has been linked with Manchester United(Image: Europa Press Sports, Europa Press via Getty Images)
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Manchester United are continuing to work on bolstering their squad ahead of next season. Michael Carrick has already strengthened his midfield ranks but will recognise there is still scope to improve the team.
Summer arrivals Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans will be eager to make an impression on the United manager during pre-season as he looks to reshape his midfield. Casemiro's exit and Manuel Ugarte's injury had restricted the choices at Carrick's disposal, who notably restored Kobbie Mainoo to the side last season.
United have been heavily linked with a third midfield acquisition, with Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Bournemouth's Alex Scott and Roma's Manu Kone among those mentioned with switches to Old Trafford. Yet Barcelona prospect Marc Bernal has surfaced as another possibility following his breakthrough campaign with the Catalan side.
Meanwhile, United striker Joshua Zirkzee has reportedly attracted attention from Italian giants Juventus this summer. Here, MEN Sport examines some of the most notable stories surrounding the club.
Barcelona star's stance emerges
Barcelona star Marc Bernal has reportedly made it clear that he intends to stay with his boyhood club. The 19-year-old recently enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, featuring in 22 league matches and earning his Spain debut.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reports that United are among several clubs that have expressed interest in the defensive midfielder. Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea, alongside Roma and Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr, have also been linked to the teenager.
However, Mundo Deportivo insists that Bernal has "absolute loyalty" to Barcelona. Bernal is under contract until 2029 and his deal is reported to feature a £427million (€500m) release clause.
Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United
Joshua Zirkzee has played for United during pre-season(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Man United 'in talks' over £30m deal
Manchester United are reportedly in discussions with Juventus regarding a deal that could see Joshua Zirkzee leave the club. The 25-year-old has found it difficult to secure a consistent place in the team since he arrived from Bologna in 2024.
The Sun claims that Zirkzee is a "top target" for Juve, who are leading the race for his services. It is reported that the clubs are "in talks" over a loan deal which would feature a £30m obligation to buy.
The report adds that the Serie A outfit switched their focus to Zirkzee after failing to finalise a move for PSG's Randal Kolo Muani. Meanwhile, the Netherlands international is said to be "keen" on joining Juventus.
Zirkzee has featured 75 times across his two years at United, netting nine goals. He started one of his 10 appearances under Carrick last season.