Man Utd are focusing on players who are nearing the end of their contracts this summer as part of their rebuilding efforts under new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a source has informed ESPN.
Despite concerns about potentially breaching profit and sustainability rules, United are poised to spend in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The club bolstered its financial position in January by offloading several players, including Donny van de Beek and Jadon Sancho, from Old Trafford.
Additionally, a number of young players, such as Facundo Pellistri, Hannibal Mejbri, and Álvaro Fernández, departed the club, while on-loan defender Sergio Reguilón had his loan spell cut short.
Despite considering the January window a success, sources indicate that finances are still “tight” at the club. Therefore, targeting players whose contracts are expiring is seen as a prudent approach to managing expenditures in the summer.
This strategy was underscored by Mason Mount’s attractiveness as a potential signing last summer, with United being informed during negotiations that he would not be renewing his contract with Chelsea.
Chelsea opted to facilitate Mason Mount’s departure rather than risk losing the England midfielder for free a year later.
Ahead of this summer, Manchester United are exploring similar deals with players like Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan David, and Khephren Thuram, all of whom are set to be out of contract in 2025.
In addition to United, Manchester City and several other clubs have shown interest in German international Joshua Kimmich, whose contract with Bayern Munich will enter its final year at the end of the season.
Meanwhile, Bayern defender Alphonso Davies is also poised to enter the final year of his contract in the summer. Sources indicate that Real Madrid is his preferred destination should he opt to leave the Allianz Arena.
INEOS and its team, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are looking to appoint a new director of football in the coming weeks, but preparations for the summer transfer window have already begun. Confirmation of Ratcliffe’s 25% stake in the club is expected by mid-February.