Michael Carrick is still eyeing several players to add to his Manchester United squad this summer
Manchester United's English head coach Michael Carrick sits on the bench during the pre-season friendly match between English Premier League football club Manchester United and EFL Championship club Wrexham AFC at Helsinki Olympic Stadium in Helsinki, Finland on July 18, 2026
Michael Carrick is still looking to bolster his squad(Image: Lehtikuva)
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Manchester United aren't done when it comes to improving their squad in the summer transfer window.
Michael Carrick's side have signed three first-team stars so far, including midfield duo Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. However, with United preparing to compete in four competitions this season, the Premier League giants will look to make new additions in the coming weeks.
With that in mind, they could focus their efforts on four players who have reportedly shown interest in signing for the club. United are said to be frontrunners in the chase to sign Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi.
According to Quotidiano Sportivo, the Colombian defender is said to only want to join a 'big club', with United fighting for his signature against Juventus, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth.
Lucumi, 28, has just 12 months left on his contract and is reportedly open to joining United, who've made their move for the World Cup star, it's been claimed. The report also claims the Serie A side are requesting €25million (£21.4m) plus €3million (£2.6m) in add-ons for his services, with Juventus and Forest's offers falling short of their valuation.
Lucumi's arrival would bolster United's defensive depth, which was hampered last season by the injuries of Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt. Carrick has successfully upgraded his midfield options this summer, but could look to increase his options in the engine room by chasing a deal for either Carlos Baleba or Alex Scott.
Jhon Lucumi of Colombia passes the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Switzerland and Colombia at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver
Jhon Lucumi is reportedly wanting to sign for a 'big club' (Image: Getty)
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The Brighton midfielder has been closely monitored by United for the last two summers, but a deal had never materalised due to the Seagulls' slapping a price tag of £100m on the 22-year-old.
The Cameroonian was said to be keen on a move, but any chance of a deal being thrashed out this summer took a hit after he suffered an ankle ligament injury. That likely makes Scott a more viable acquisition, with a possible transfer certainly helped by the Cherries midfielder reportedly being open to a move to Old Trafford.
Carlos Baleba in action for Brighton
Carlos Baleba's injury may have scuppered a potential transfer (Image: Getty Images)
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The 22-year-old is subject to intense interest across the English top-flight, with Chelsea and Liverpool said to be keeping an eye on his situation. The England star impressed heavily in Bournemouth's capture of European football last season and is thought to be valued at £70m by the club.
However, his price tag could jump to £80m if a bidding war ensues. Signing the England star would represent a significant acquisition, which could see United opt for a more cost-effective deal in AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone.
Alex Scott of Bournemouth
Alex Scott has been subject to reported interest from United and Chelsea (Image: Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)
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The Frenchman has reportedly given the all-clear over a possible move to Manchester, given reports in Italy suggesting that United have already agreed personal terms with the 25-year-old.
The Italian side are reportedly seeking a figure of around €60m (£51m) if they are to part ways with Kone. A move to United would certainly be backed by former captain Patrice Evra, who waxed lyrical about his compatriot's talents. The former France international told Stake: "I like Manu Kone's profile for the Premier League.
Manu Kone in action for Roma
Michael Carrick's side have been linked with a move for Manu Kone(Image: (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images))
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"He has energy, he carries the ball, he likes duels and he works for the team. All of those things matter in England. The Premier League is faster. You don't get time to breathe. So the important thing is adaptation.
"Don't judge him after five games. If he goes to Arsenal with a manager who knows how to use him, I think he can do well. He definitely has the tools. Then it is about consistency."