As Champions League football returns to Old Trafford, Gary Neville urges Manchester United to offload injury-plagued Mason Mount to fund a versatile, multi-positional midfield overhaul.
Manchester United now have one eye firmly on their summer transfer window after securing Champions League qualification for next season.
A recent 3-2 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford, courtesy of goals from Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Šeško, and Kobbie Mainoo, saw United lift themselves to 64 points and 12 points clear of sixth with three games to go, securing their spot.
A place in Europe's elite competition for next season will greatly enhance their capabilities in the summer transfer market, as they will be likely able to add up to £80-100 million to their spending.
While the club are focusing on bringing in up to three new midfielders, a new left winger, and possibly a new left-back, there is also a focus on outgoings.
Neville urges United to consider Mount swap
When United signed Mason Mount from Chelsea for an initial fee of £55 million, many at the time saw it as a move that could greatly enhance Erik ten Hag's front line and creativity in the final third.
However, injuries and multiple managerial changes at Old Trafford since the Englishman signed in 2023 have led to him fading into a squad role at the club. He's made just 22 appearances this season.
Former United captain and defender Gary Neville, who is very outspoken about the club, has urged the Reds to consider swapping Mount for a more versatile midfielder.
"I think United need a left-back for next season because Luke Shaw has played every game this year and he may struggle," Neville commented on his Sky Sports podcast. "They need a centre-back, 100 per cent, and they need two midfield players.
“They are the four priorities right now. They’re the players I would look at adding to this squad.
“Look, if you could, then maybe trade Mason Mount for someone else who maybe can play in and out and can be a bit more flexible across the midfield and forward line, then I would say go for a fifth.
“But if you can’t, I would say those four areas are the priority, and they’ve got to be top-notch, those players.”
Who else is likely to leave United this summer?
There are a few players currently on loan, but technically still contracted to Old Trafford, who are expected to leave the club permanently this summer.
Napoli are expected to trigger Rasmus Højlund's £39 million option to buy once their season ends, while Barcelona have the option to sign Marcus Rashford for £26 million – although there is contention surrounding whether this will be triggered.
Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte is expected to leave the club this summer if any club matches United's asking price of around £25 million. He has interest from several clubs in Italy and Turkey.
Joshua Zirkzee is another player who could depart. Despite the Dutchman being keen to remain at United, his playing time could be limited, and he has long-term interest from multiple Serie A clubs.