The 2024 summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of the busiest in recent years for Manchester United, with a number of key players on the verge of leaving Old Trafford. Under the guidance of manager Ruben Amorim, the club is set for a major squad overhaul, with several stars out of favor and their futures uncertain. The likes of Jonny Evans, Tom Heaton, Christian Eriksen, and Victor Lindelof are all likely to exit, while younger talents like Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho are also at risk of being sold.
In this article, we’ll break down the biggest summer exodus in years, examining the players who are likely to leave Manchester United, the reasons behind their departures, and what it means for the future of the club.
The Uncertainty Surrounding Key Players
Jonny Evans: A Career Winding Down
Jonny Evans, the veteran central defender, has not started a match in the past four months, and his time at Old Trafford is likely coming to an end. The 37-year-old has been with the club for several seasons but has found himself relegated to a bit-part role under Amorim. According to Manchester Evening News, Evans is expected to retire at the end of the season, marking the end of an era for the Northern Ireland international.
Tom Heaton: Another Veteran Ready to Retire
Similarly, goalkeeper Tom Heaton, aged 39, is expected to retire at the end of the 2023-24 season. Heaton has primarily been used as a backup option for United but has found himself on the bench for much of this season. His age and limited playing time suggest that he will step away from professional football once the season concludes.
Christian Eriksen: Heading for the Exit
Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen’s future at Manchester United is uncertain. Having been with the club for just over a year, Eriksen’s contract will expire in June, and reports suggest United is prepared to part ways with the experienced midfielder. Last summer, the club was open to offers for Eriksen, and with his contract running out, it seems unlikely that a new deal will be negotiated.
Victor Lindelof: A Potential Return to Benfica
Swedish defender Victor Lindelof, who has spent several seasons at Old Trafford, is another player whose future is in doubt. Lindelof has been a reliable option for United over the years but has faced increased competition for his spot in the starting lineup. With his contract nearing its expiration and reports suggesting a potential return to Benfica, Lindelof’s time at Manchester United could be coming to an end.
Credit: Reuters
Out on Loan: The Likely Departures of Rashford, Sancho, and Antony
Marcus Rashford: A Revival at Aston Villa
Marcus Rashford’s loan move to Aston Villa has proven to be beneficial for both parties. The 25-year-old has been in excellent form since joining Villa in January and has even earned a call-up to the England national team under manager Thomas Tuchel. Villa has a £40 million option to make the move permanent, and with Rashford’s strong performances, it seems likely that the deal will go through. His departure would mark the end of a chapter for the academy graduate, who has had a mixed relationship with Amorim.
Jadon Sancho: Chelsea’s Permanent Interest
Jadon Sancho’s tenure at Manchester United has been a rollercoaster. After a high-profile move from Borussia Dortmund, Sancho has struggled to find consistent form, leading to speculation about his future. Chelsea is reportedly keen on securing a permanent deal for Sancho, with a £20-25 million price tag and a £5 million get-out clause in place. While Sancho has shown flashes of his talent, it seems that a fresh start at Stamford Bridge may be in his future.
Antony: No Path Back to Old Trafford
Antony’s £85.5 million move from Ajax to Manchester United was one of the most high-profile transfers in recent seasons, but his time at Old Trafford has been far from smooth. After a disappointing run of performances, Antony has enjoyed a career revival on loan at Real Betis. However, it seems there is no way back for him at Manchester United, with Amorim likely to part ways with the Brazilian winger in the summer.
Mainoo and Garnacho: Young Talents Under Threat
Kobbie Mainoo: A Potential £70 Million Exit
Kobbie Mainoo, one of the brightest young talents at Manchester United, could also be on his way out of the club. Despite being an academy graduate, Mainoo has found himself in a difficult position, with reports suggesting that the club could entertain offers for him. The midfielder has not been able to agree on a new contract, and with two years remaining on his deal, a move away from Old Trafford could be on the cards. With a potential £70 million price tag, Mainoo represents a significant asset for the club, and United may see the opportunity to cash in.
Alejandro Garnacho: A Rising Star at Risk
Alejandro Garnacho, another promising young player, could also face an uncertain future at Manchester United. Although the Argentine winger has shown flashes of brilliance, the club is reportedly open to offers for him. As academy products, both Mainoo and Garnacho represent “pure profit” for the club, which could help Manchester United stay in line with their Profit and Sustainability Rules. While United may not actively want to sell these players, financial and footballing factors could lead to their departures.
The Case of Casemiro: A Veteran Who Could Be Sold
Casemiro’s Departure on the Horizon?
Casemiro, the Brazilian defensive midfielder who arrived at Manchester United in a £70 million deal from Real Madrid in 2022, has been a key figure in the club’s midfield. However, with just one year remaining on his contract, United could be open to selling the 33-year-old if a suitable offer arrives. Casemiro’s departure would be a significant loss for the team, but with the club focusing on reshaping the squad, a move away could be a possibility.
Tyrell Malacia: A Potential Permanent Exit
PSV’s Interest in Malacia
Tyrell Malacia, the Dutch left-back who joined Manchester United in 2022, could be another player on the move. PSV Eindhoven reportedly has an option to make his loan move permanent, and with the player’s future uncertain, the deal could be completed this summer. Malacia’s departure would mark the end of his brief time at Old Trafford, as the club looks to streamline its squad.
Andre Onana: A Potential Move to the Saudi Pro League
A Shock Exit for the Goalkeeper?
One of the more surprising potential departures is that of goalkeeper Andre Onana. Despite being a high-profile summer signing, Onana could be on his way to the Saudi Pro League. The club is reportedly open to offers for the Cameroonian goalkeeper, and with interest from Saudi clubs, it remains to be seen whether Onana will remain at Old Trafford or pursue a move abroad.
Ruben Amorim’s Role in the Summer Exodus
The Manager’s Tough Decisions
Ruben Amorim, the Manchester United manager, has made it clear that he is not afraid to make tough decisions when it comes to player departures. Speaking earlier in the season, Amorim acknowledged that some players are already aware that their time at the club may be coming to an end. He stressed the importance of honesty and transparency, ensuring that players understand their situation and are not left in the dark. This approach could lead to several high-profile exits as Amorim looks to reshape the squad.
Rebuilding for the Future
While the summer exodus may seem like a setback, it presents an opportunity for Manchester United to rebuild and focus on bringing in new talent. The club will likely use the funds from player sales to reinvest in key positions, particularly a new goalscorer to help solve the club’s attacking woes. With the likes of Rashford, Sancho, and Antony potentially leaving, United has the chance to bring in fresh faces who align with Amorim’s vision for the team.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Summer for Manchester United
The summer of 2024 is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in Manchester United’s recent history. With several high-profile players facing uncertain futures, Amorim’s decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the club’s next phase. Whether the club will be able to reinvest wisely and emerge stronger remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the Red Devils are set for a busy summer of changes.
Follow Me