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Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag's strongest XI is scary had two players not snubbed transfers
Manchester United still have some way to go before they're able to compete with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City.
Erik ten Hag will seek to add the final pieces of his Manchester United puzzle this summer but there are two players that really would have elevated his team to another level had they signed in 2022. It's understood that both Frenkie de Jong and Alexander Isak rejected moves to Old Trafford meaning the Red Devils were forced to explore alternative targets.
United failed to sign a striker before landing Wout Weghorst on loan in January.
Meanwhile, De Jong opted to remain at Barcelona despite conversations with his ex-Ajax boss Ten Hag over a potential reunion.
Unfortunately for United, centre-forward and central midfield are two areas that still need to be addressed this summer in addition to goalkeeper and right-back.
Nonetheless, Express Sport takes a look at what Manchester United's team could have looked like this season had Isak and De Jong signed on the dotted line.
GK - David de Gea
At the moment, the spot picks itself but De Gea's long-term future at United is very much in doubt. For now, he is their No 1.
RB - Diogo Dalot
There is not much between Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka nowadays but the Portuguese international continues to get the nod more often than not.
CB - Lisandro Martinez
Although Martinez was not best pleased to be subbed against Newcastle, he remains Ten Hag's first-choice central defender.
CB - Raphael Varane
Varane has formed a blossoming partnership with Martinez at the heart of United's defence and they will remain guaranteed starters moving forward providing both can stay fit.
LB - Luke Shaw
Having just signed a new long-term contract with United, there is no doubt the England international is an integral member of Ten Hag's squad.
CM - Frenkie de Jong
He was the No.8 that Ten Hag wanted but never got. His technical quality and passing ability would have taken United's midfield to a whole new level but the Dutchman wanted to stay at Barcelona.
CM - Casemiro
The perfect midfield partner for De Jong, Casemiro can break up play and win the ball back for his team like he has done all season - even adding some goals to his game.
RW - Antony
Antony's place in the side is undoubtedly under threat as his performances haven't been up to scratch. For now, he stays put but Jadon Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho will be breathing down his neck.
CAM - Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes is one of few guaranteed starters currently at United having donned the armband for the majority of the season.
LW - Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford has been electric this season and who knows what would have happened with more quality in midfield and in attack.
ST - Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak is a clear upgrade on Wout Weghorst and could have been a serious addition to United's squad had he agreed to join last term.
Mundo Deportivo in Spain reported last summer that Isak decided against the move before opting to sign for Newcastle.
Now many - including Jamie Carragher - feel as though the Swede is exactly what United are missing in attack although they are still highly likely to sanction a big-money deal for Harry Kane or Victor Osimhen this summer.