Michael Carrick was recently asked who he still talks to from his Manchester United playing days, and that person would be a shrewd signing for today's side.
Manchester United's summer transfer plans are still being finalised, and they will not be set in stone until a new head coach is appointed at the end of the season, although Michael Carrick could remain in charge for 2026/27 after his brilliant stint in the aftermath of Rúben Amorim.
No matter who is in charge next season, it seems Director of football Jason Wilcox is eyeing several central midfielders, a left-winger, and a left-back for the upcoming transfer window.
Casemiro's departure makes the midfield the biggest priority for the transfer window, but the other positions will also be key in United's fortunes next season, with a good Premier League finish and a Champions League run to aim for.
The left-winger target could be solved by Marcus Rashford. The England international is currently on loan at Barcelona, but could return to Old Trafford this summer if Hansi Flick's side do not activate their £26 million buy option.
United could be looking at more United returns this summer, as one former red could make a brilliant option for a transfer, should he be available.
United should eye Welbeck transfer
Danny Welbeck left Manchester United in the summer of 2014 as Louis Van Gaal looked to clear house after David Moyes' poor season in charge of the club.
The now 35-year-old joined Arsenal and spent five years at the club, scoring 32 goals in 126 appearances. Welbeck is now at Brighton and has scored 51 goals in 197 appearances for the Seagulls.
His goal-scoring appears to have improved with age, as Welbeck netted 11 goals last campaign, with 14 and counting to his name this season.
"Danny Welbeck still messages me now and again," Michael Carrick said when asked if he keeps in contact with any former United players from his playing days.
In March, Welbeck signed a new contract to remain at Brighton until the end of 2026/27, meaning he will not be available on a free transfer. But he is likely to be available for a low fee this summer, which United should look to exploit.
Why United should move for Welbeck
Benjamin Šeško has impressed for United this season, especially under Michael Carrick, but he is far from the finished product. The Slovenian still has plenty of time to develop, and he will, with guidance.
Two of Welbeck's goals this season have been headers, while he scored another two the season prior. Šeško is no stranger to heading the ball, but he needs to improve that area of his game. Welbeck can help.
Šeško also needs to learn how to feed off scraps and how to score when he gets little service. Welbeck can help.
Danny Welbeck is far from one of Europe's top centre-forwards, but he has the experience and knowhow to push Šeško to that level, while being able to fill in for him during bad spells or injuries.
With United returning to the Champions League next season, and Joshua Zirkzee looking like he could leave, United need more backup options. They could do a lot worse than Danny Welbeck.