Man Utd's transfer plans laid bare as INEOS eye three new midfielders in big spree

Manchester United are planning to make at least five new signings during the summer transfer window - and could bring in as many as three new central midfielders. The Red Devils are keen to bolster their squad ahead of their return to the Champions League, which will add at least eight fixtures to their schedule next season. The midfield remains United's primary concern, as they prepare to part ways with Casemiro when his contract expires in June.

Premier League names including Tyler Adams, Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, Matheus Fernandes, Joao Gomes, Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton have all been linked with a move to Old Trafford. Further afield, Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni and Atalanta's Ederson are among the rumoured targets. According to The Sun, United's aim is to secure two new midfielders and the sale of Manuel Ugarte could free up funds to pursue a third.

The Red Devils are also in the market for a new backup goalkeeper, with Andre Onana potentially joining Turkish side Trabzonspor on a permanent basis. Current second choice Altay Bayindir is likewise expected to seek more first-team opportunities elsewhere next season.

Left-back is another position under consideration, despite Luke Shaw enjoying a largely injury-free campaign. Tyrell Malacia's deal is set to expire, while Patrick Dorgu has caught the eye further forward, presenting United with an opportunity to strengthen.

A back-up striker also features on United's wishlist. Joshua Zirkzee has been tipped for the exit door, which would create space for a new No.9 to challenge Benjamin Sesko. Saturday's lacklustre 0-0 stalemate away to Sunderland offered the Old Trafford hierarchy additional proof that investment is required.

Interim boss Michael Carrick was forced to make a couple of changes, due to the unavailability of Casemiro and Sesko, and his team's performance suffered as a result.

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Anderson is believed to be United's primary midfield objective and will have the opportunity to impress Carrick, who's expected to secure the role permanently, when Nottingham Forest travel to Old Trafford on Sunday.

However, Manchester City are also pursuing Anderson and United are hesitant to enter into a bidding war for the England international's signature.

United are said to have conducted informal discussions with relegated Wolves regarding Gomes. West Ham could join Wolves in the Championship and face pressure to offload Fernandes.

Tchouameni may also become available following his confrontation with Real team-mate Federico Valverde. A prospect who would address both the left-back and midfield requirements is Myles Lewis-Skelly but the Englishman has recently regained his place in the Arsenal starting XI following a frustrating campaign spent predominantly on the bench.