(Credit: Imago)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Thu 30 April 2026 8:00, UK

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Manchester United are set to target the addition of a top-class centre-back to their squad this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The Red Devils have seen their depth in that area of the pitch hit drastically by injuries and suspension in recent weeks, and they are determined to ensure that they correct those issues ahead of next season.

There is expected to be plenty of turnover within the first-team group at Old Trafford this summer, and sources say that a new centre-back will come in if the right candidate can be found.

Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez have already endured lengthy periods on the sidelines this term, and that is the driving factor behind the decision to try and recruit a new option.

United’s transfer plans are set to see plenty of players come in and out in the coming months, but it is clear where their priorities lie heading into the window.

Man United target centre-back in addition to three-point plan

Michael Carrick has overseen a dramatic turnaround at Old Trafford since he took the reins on an interim basis back in January, and the team are now on the verge of sealing a return to the Champions League.

The club hierarchy are preparing to strengthen the squad to ensure that they can compete at that level next term, and they have already made their priorities clear ahead of the window.

Football Insider revealed on Wednesday that United’s three-point signing plan for the summer is set to see them target a new centre-midfielder, left-back and left-winger as top priorities.

The addition of a new centre-back is now also on the cards before next season, but is not deemed to be quite as pressing an issue as the other three positions.

United need quality cover for Luke Shaw ahead of next term, while they are also on the hunt for a Casemiro replacement, and an attacker who is a natural fit on the left flank.

Alphonso Davies swoop could be on this summer

Football Insider revealed at the end of March that Bayern Munich could accept an offer for left-back Alphonso Davies this summer, if it is deemed to be “too good to refuse.”

United have been long-term admirers of the Canadian international, and they have been linked with a move for him yet again this summer.

However, Bayern have already made it clear that it would take a truly eye-watering offer for them to entertain the idea of a sale, although that is not necessarily beyond United’s reach.

Davies is still seen as one of Europe’s best full-backs, despite injury issues setting into his game in recent years, and he is seen as the perfect fit for the left-back role at United.