Manchester United have flown out to the United States for the start of their pre-season tour.
Manager Erik ten Hag has named a 29-man squad for three fixtures across the pond against Arsenal, Real Betis and Liverpool. Among those making the trip to America is Jadon Sancho.
The English winger has called a truce with Ten Hag after a fallout saw him banished from the first team in September 2023. He would later spend time on loan at Borussia Dortmund where he showed signs of rediscovering his form.
Ten Hag has insisted he has drawn a line under the Sancho debacle and he could continue to receive minutes in the USA. As for transfer news, United have turned their sights on left-back Marcos Alonso who is a free agent after leaving Barcelona at the end of last season.
PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte continues to be on the radar to strengthen the midfield while striker Ivan Toney is another name being floated this week.
Follow the live blog below for all the very latest United news, views and transfer updates:
Kieran King
Scholes on transfers
Paul Scholes has urged Manchester United to sign an elite striker who can "guarantee goals", despite completing the signing of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna.
"When I think about Manchester United, I think about brilliant centre-forwards," he said during a recent TV appearance. "I think they’ve had one young one last year in Rasmus Hojlund who they have had to rely on and it was a little bit unfair. He’s a young player, still learning the game.
“They’ve bought another young one [Zirkzee]… I would like to see an experienced centre-forward come and help with that and virtually guarantee goals. Whether that man is out there, I don’t know. But I think they need somebody who is proven and somebody who is proven and go on and be successful next year.”
Kieran King
United 'trying to sell' trio to fund new additions
According to a report by TEAMtalk, United are 'trying to sell' Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay and Casemiro to fund the signings of Matthijs de Ligt and Manuel Ugarte.
The Reds have already splashed out big-money on bringing in Leny Yoro from Lille and Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna and are determined to add further fresh faces.
However, United know they need to raise funds via player sales before they can commit to other big-name signings.
As a result, it is now reported United want to raise funds via selling Maguire, McTominay and Casemiro.
All three players have been linked with exits from Old Trafford throughout the window.
Kieran King
Wigan sign Hugill
Wigan have completed the signing of Manchester United forward Joe Hugill on loan.
We are delighted to confirm the signing of @ManUtd striker Joe Hugill on a season-long loan! #wafc
— Wigan Athletic (@LaticsOfficial) July 25, 2024
Kieran King
Rangers in Hannibal talks
Rangers are in talks to sign Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri, according to Africafoot.
Hannibal has reportedly received offers from two clubs in recent days, with Copenhagen among the others tracking his progress. The Tunisian spent the second half of the season on loan at Sevilla and could be on the move from United once again this summer.
Isaac Johnson
Wan-Bissaka 'targets' Inter move
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is said to be keen on a move to Serie A champions Inter, having rejected offers from elsewhere.
That's according to The Athletic, which says bids from West Ham have been turned down. The 26-year-old arrived from Crystal Palace in 2019 for £50m but may go for less than half of that fee.
United triggered the defender's 12-month extension earlier this year but this may have only been to retain value ahead of s summer exit.
Isaac Johnson
Amrabat sends Man United transfer hint
United have not yet ruled out a return move for Sofyan Amrabat, whose loan from Fiorentina ended at the end of last season.
The midfielder enjoyed a fruitful final few weeks at the club after undercooking for most of the campaign. United decided against triggering his £21m release clause as a result.
MEN Sport understands that Amrabat wishes to return to United. The player has now sent a social media message to show he is regaining fitness ahead of the new season.
Isaac Johnson
Ugarte alternative 'considered'
A report from says Correio da Manha United are keeping tabs on Sporting midfielder Morten Hjulmand.
However, it says the 25-year-old would cost around £67m, despite costing the club just £15m from Lecce last summer.
The report says the Dane could be sought after if a move for Manuel Ugarte breaks down. MEN Sport understands the club have been in talks with the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder ove a transfer.
Isaac Johnson
Branthwaite 'refusal'
United target Jarrad Branthwaite is reportedly refusing to sign a new contract at Everton unless they match his wage demands.
The 22-year-old has seen two bids from United for him rejected this summer with the Toffees adamant on either keeping the defender or selling him for £70m or more.
Branthwaite does not see his contract expire until 2027 but Everton want him to make a new commitment. The player does not want to do that unless the club match the salary United were going to pay him if a bid was successful, says the Daily Mail.
Josh Holland
United's next two transfers decided
Manchester United are expected to continue moving swiftly in the summer transfer window after already spending £88million on Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro. Zirkzee and Yoro fill two positions that United were desperate for.
A quality candidate to compete with Rasmus Hojlund in centre-forward provides Ten Hag with a positive headache in attack and Yoro's arrival significantly bolsters the backline, despite being only 18.
United can now fix their attention on recruiting their next arrivals.
Isaac Johnson
Neves update
United, again, have been linked with Joao Neves this summer albeit never in any serious capacity.
And now, reports in Italy say the Benfica star nearing a move to Paris Saint-Germain, who have held talks with the 19-year-old. Neves could have left Benfica by next week with a package of around £60m being discussed.
United are having to cut their financial cloth accordingly this window amid Premier League spending limits and a reported self-impsoed net spend target of just £50m.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 25, 2024Paris Saint-Germain are closing in on João Neves deal! New, positive round of talks again today.
PSG want to get it sealed next week.
Details of package being discussed after €70m fee + players to include for Benfica, like Renato Sánches.
Here we go, expected soon pic.twitter.com/tCu6D66c5x
Isaac Johnson
Barcelona make Olmo contact amid United links
United have been tentatively linked with interest in Spain star Dani Olmo following his showings at Euro 2024.
However, it seems Barcelona are ramping up their interest in the attacking midfielder, with Mundo Deportivo claiming that talks have begun with the player.
Olmo was thought to have a £50m release clause in his contract that expired last week. United are keen on getting a midfielder in before deadline day.
Isaac Johnson
Sesko explains United snub
Benjamin Sesko was somewhat linked with a United switch earlier this summer before he decided to pen a renewal at RB Leipzig.
It was not the first time the attacker had been connected with Old Trafford, However, he made up his mind early this summer as United instead pivoted towards Joshua Zirkzee.
Speaking to Nogomania, 20-year-old Sesko explained:
"I thought it through very well. I believe I made the right decision. I wanted to gain more experience, learn more, and not rush things.
"Leipzig is an excellent club that can provide what I need for the next step. Leipzig's vision is clear; everything is geared towards growth, progress, and high goals. I felt it was right to decide this way."
Isaac Johnson
More on Hannibal
Following on from earlier reports today that Rangers are keen to bring in Hannibal Mejbri in on loan, Africa Foot says the player has already recieved two offers.
It says a proposal from Copenhagen has not whetted his apetite albeit talks are underway regarding a potential switch. Hannibal, it says, has not decided his future just yet.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at Sevilla, making just six outings in a tough period for the 21-year-old. He has made 13 senior appearances for United so far.
George Smith
United 'offered' Frimpong
According to a report by HITC, Bayer Leverkusen have 'offered' right wing-back Jeremie Frimpong to United.
United will be in the market for a right-sided full-back if they sell Aaron Wan-Bissaka ahead of next month's deadline.
Frimpong, formerly of Manchester City, has been a player linked with United at various stages over the past 12 months.
The Manchester Evening News first confirmed United's interest in the Netherlands international in April 2023 after the club held talks with his representatives.
George Smith
Sesko explains why he stayed at Leipzig amid United links
Striker Benjamin Sesko has said it made sense for him to stay at RB Leipzig this summer after signing a new contract at the club prior to the start of the European Championship.
The Slovenian international, who was the subject of interest from United two years ago, was linked with a move to Old Trafford once again prior to the tournament. He was also linked with both Arsenal and Chelsea.
However, he shut down talk of a move to England by extending his stay at Leipzig until 2029.
Explaining why he did that, he told Slovenian publication Nogomania:
"I thought it through very well. I believe I made the right decision. I wanted to gain more experience, learn more, and not rush things. Leipzig is an excellent club that can provide what I need for the next step. Leipzig's vision is clear; everything is geared towards growth, progress, and high goals. I felt it was right to decide this way."
Tyrone Marshall
OPINION: Mourinho's last United tour squad offers lesson to 12 academy graduates
"So while Dermot Mee, Radek Vitek, Harry Amass, Rhys Bennett, Will Fish, Sam Murray, Toby Collyer, Jack Fletcher, Sam Mather, Maxi Oyedele, James Scanlon and Ethan Wheatley head out on tour, they will know the hard work has barely even begun. All have individual stories. Fletcher was prised from Manchester City with twin Tyler and is among the most highly-rated young players in the country. Collyer has been earmarked by Ten Hag as a player he has high hopes for, while Mather is now represented by SEG, the agency which looks after the United manager. Wheatley's name will forever be linked with the club after he became the 250th academy graduate to make his debut last season."
Click here to read more from senior football writer Tyrone Marshall.
George Smith
Every player United have been linked with so far this summer
Is there a player out there who hasn't been linked with a move to United so far this summer? Responsible for gathering transfer rumours and snippets for this live blog on a daily basis, I must say that it feels impossible!
United have been linked with players from all corners of the globe in recent weeks in their search for fresh talent.
Some rumours have been laughable and others have carried substance.
Click here to read more.
George Smith
En-Nesyri links up with Mourinho amid recent United links
Sevilla striker Youssef En-Nesyri has joined Turkish club Fenerbahce, linking up with former United manager Jose Mourinho.
The striker was linked with a move to United at the beginning of June amid the club's search for a new goal-getter.
He has signed a five-year deal at his new club.
George Smith
Rangers 'request' to sign Hannibal on loan
According to a report by Africa foot, Rangers have 'requested' to take United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri on loan.
The Tunisian international is out of contract at Old Trafford next summer and spent the second half of last season on loan at Spanish side Sevilla.
It is reported that negotiations between all parties are currently 'advanced'.
FC Copenhagen are also reported to have expressed an interest in taking Hannibal on loan with a view to a permanent deal. The midfielder, however, is reportedly 'not very keen' on joining the Danish outfit.
George Smith
United's opening five Premier League fixtures in 2024/25
United will get their Premier League campaign up and running against Fulham exactly three weeks tomorrow.
The Cottagers will visit Old Trafford for the very first game of the 2024/25 Premier League season on Friday, August 16.
With the countdown clock ticking, here is a reminder of United's opening five matches...
- vs Fulham (H) - August 16, 8pm
- vs Brighton & Hove Albion (A) - August 24, 12.30pm
- vs Liverpool (H) - September 1, 4pm
- vs Southampton (A) - September 14, 12.30pm
- vs Crystal Palace (A) - September 21, 5.30pm
*Fixture dates and kick-off times are subject to change.
George Smith
Pellistri 'open' to Panathinaikos switch amid rumours
According to a report by Prasinoforos.gr, United winger Facundo Pellistri is 'open' to joining Greek outfit Panathinaikos.
The Uruguay international has struggled for regular opportunities since joining United in 2020 and it feels likely that he will leave the club on a permanent basis this summer.
It has been reported over the last few days that Panathinaikos have registered 'interested' in the right-sided player. It is now claimed that he 'welcomes' the possibility of making the move to Greece.
The report states that Panathinaikos want to sign him on a permanent deal.
George Smith
ANALYSIS: United's dream midfield after five transfers
Having swooped for Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee so far this summer, next on United's to-do list is signing a midfielder.
United are desperate to strengthen their defensive midfield options this summer and are interested in both Paris Saint-Germain ace Manuel Ugarte and Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad.
But will signing just one defensive midfielder ahead of next month's deadline be enough? If Casemiro is sold, most probably not.
Click here to read more.
George Smith
Scholes outlines United transfer wish
Former midfielder Paul Scholes has said he would like to see United swoop for a proven centre-forward before the end of this summer's transfer window.
United, following the exit of Anthony Martial last month, have already swooped for a new attacker, bringing in Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. However, he has arrived at Old Trafford without the record of being a proven goalscorer, instead making headlines for his all-round play.
United have since been linked with signing Brentford striker Ivan Toney to add a little bit more experience to their attacking pool.
Scholes, as quoted by the Metro, told Sky Sports:
"When I think about Manchester United, I think about brilliant centre-forwards. I think they've had one young one last year in Rasmus Hojlund who they have had to rely on and it was a little bit unfair. He's a young player, still learning the game. They've bought another young one [Zirkzee]… I would like to see an experienced centre-forward come and help with that and virtually guarantee goals. Whether that man is out there, I don't know. But I think they need somebody who is proven and somebody who is proven and go on and be successful next year."
George Smith
PSG 'hold talks' with Sancho's 'camp' about possible transfer
According to a report by FootballTransfers, Paris Saint-Germain have 'held talks' with Jadon Sancho's 'camp' about the prospect of luring him to the French capital.
Sancho has been heavily linked with a move to the Ligue 1 outfit this week despite recently patching things up with Erik ten Hag. He made his first United appearance in almost a year last weekend, starting the 2-0 win over Rangers, and has travelled to the United States for the club's pre-season tour.
The report states that PSG are yet to speak directly with United about a deal for the winger, but they have reached out to Sancho's camp to find out if he would be interested in a move. It is claimed he is 'open' to joining the French outfit.
Tyrone Marshall
OPINION: United tour squad highlights unexpected transfer priority
"United went into this summer monitoring full-backs and recently expected to only make a move in this area if a player left, which is still likely with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, but in recent days it has become a more pressing issue. Erik ten Hag had to operate for a chunk of last season without a recognised left-back and Luke Shaw's fitness record will always make it essential he has reliable cover. The Euro 2024 final is his only start since suffering a hamstring injury in February. Tyrell Malacia can't be considered a suitable back-up right now and his absence from the tour squad is a concern. The £14.7m signing from Feyenoord missed the entirety of last season after two operations on a knee injury and he continues to train on his own back in Manchester. There is little expectation that he will be fit for the start of the season."
Click here to read more from senior football writer Tyrone Marshall.
George Smith
United 'hopeful' of landing Ugarte at 'reduced price'
United 'remain hopeful' of being able to land Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte in a 'cut-price' deal this summer, according to GiveMeSport.
United are determined to strengthen their midfield options this summer and Ugarte has been identified as a player they are very much interested in. Various reports have stated he is keen to join United but they have so far been unable to reach an agreement with PSG.
According to this latest report, there is a 'strong belief' Ugarte's price tag will reduce the closer we get towards the transfer window slamming shut at the end of August.
George Smith
Wan-Bissaka and Dumfries swap deal 'being discussed'
According to The Athletic, the prospect of United trading Aaron Wan-Bissaka for Inter Milan's Denzel Dumfries is 'being discussed by intermediaries'.
Wan-Bissaka is out of contract at United next summer, meaning this summer's window represents the club's last meaningful chance to sell him for a reasonable transfer fee. West Ham United have been interested in the right-back but he is said to have 'turned them down' in favour of a move to Italy.
United will have to bring in a replacement if Wan-Bissaka goes and Dumfries is a player they have been linked with regularly in recent years. Despite ongoing talks, a deal, according to the report, is 'not advanced as things stand'.
George Smith
Branthwaite has 'no intentions' to sign new Everton contract amid United interest
Defender Jarrad Branthwaite has 'no intentions' of signing a new contract at Everton 'unless they can match the £160,000-a-week' that was offered by United, according to the Mail.
Branthwaite remains a target for United in this summer's transfer window after already seeing two bids for him rejected. Their latest offer was worth £45million plus £5m in add-ons.
United have since added to their centre-back pool with the addition of Leny Yoro, but they remain keen to add one more central defender this summer.
Everton want to tie Branthwaite down to a new deal but it is claimed he is 'prepared to hold off' extending his stay at Goodison Park unless the Toffees increase their offer.
George Smith
United ranked as outsiders to win Premier League title by bookmaker
Unired are rank outsiders to win the Premier League title this coming season, according to one leading bookmaker.
Betfair are currently offering odds of 25/1 for United to end their long wait for their 14th Premier League crown. The Reds finished eighth last season and will be determined to secure a top four finish at the very least in 2024/25.
The latest title odds, courtesy of Betfair:
- Man City - 13/10
- Arsenal - 7/4
- Liverpool - 15/2
- Chelsea - 4/1
- Manchester United - 25/1
- Newcastle United & Tottenham Hotspur - 28/1
George Smith
Wan-Bissaka 'turns down' West Ham switch
United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka has 'turned down' the opportunity to join West Ham United, according to a report by The Athletic.
Wan-Bissaka has entered the final year of his contract at Old Trafford and has been heavily linked with a move to the London Stadium in recent weeks. United have already identified Bayern Munich's Noussair Mazraoui as a potential replacement.
Instead, Wan-Bissaka is said to 'favour' a move to Inter Milan. The Serie A outfit, like West Ham, have been linked with him throughout this window.
