Man Utd's Transfer Blueprint: Five Essential Signings to Complete After Landing Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Šeško has joined Manchester United as their fourth summer acquisition, though the struggling club isn't done with their transfer business yet.
After allocating most—if not all—of their transfer funds to secure Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Diego León, United could still use strengthening in crucial positions across the field.
To achieve this, player departures will be necessary, and several fringe players appear headed for the exit before the window closes. With time running short, the Red Devils must act quickly.
Here are five transactions Man Utd should focus on after Šeško's signing.
Carlos Baleba
United's budget constraints are evident given their spending, yet they remain lacking in quality and depth—especially in midfield. With Casemiro aging, Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo underperforming last season, and the attack-minded Bruno Fernandes expected to move deeper into the two-man midfield setup, the Red Devils need a new defensive midfielder.
Whether they possess sufficient funds to strengthen the midfield remains uncertain, but player sales could generate vital revenue. If recruitment becomes possible, Brighton & Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba would represent an outstanding signing.
The hardworking 21-year-old has flourished since joining England's south coast and was especially impressive last season. He contributed six goals and assists across all competitions, but his defensive performances stood out most, with his aggressive tackling style and relentless work rate making him an unmovable presence for the Seagulls.
Given United's recent vulnerability to being played through easily, Baleba would help solidify their midfield. He possesses the stamina needed to cover space in a two-man setup and has the potential for further development in upcoming seasons.
Alejandro Garnacho
United will dedicate much of the remaining transfer window to generating revenue, with Alejandro Garnacho representing their best opportunity for significant income. The 21-year-old's troubled relationship with the Red Devils seems likely to conclude before the September 1 deadline, with the Argentine reportedly having already submitted a departure request.
Garnacho's behavioral issues and history of conflicts will certainly impact his market value, but the winger's ability is unquestionable when performing at his peak. The 2024 Puskás Award recipient is pacey and direct, managing 21 goal contributions for the Red Devils last season despite both his and the team's difficulties.
United might secure £40-50 million for the South American this summer, which would help balance one of the club's expensive acquisitions. Chelsea and Napoli are among the clubs showing strong interest.
Antony
Antony partially restored his standing during his loan spell at Real Betis last season but appears set to depart United before the current transfer window ends. The Brazilian's Old Trafford experience has been catastrophic, though his temporary move to Spain demonstrated that talent still exists within.
While United will recover only a small portion of the £81 million invested in Antony, they cannot afford to negotiate aggressively at this time. Potential buyers understand the club's urgent need to offload the 25-year-old, weakening their bargaining position with interested parties.
Nevertheless, moving Antony and eliminating his wages from the payroll is crucial in the coming weeks, with the Red Devils potentially needing to reduce their reported £30 million valuation.
Jadon Sancho
Another departing United winger, Jadon Sancho represents an essential sale this summer. After Chelsea paid the Red Devils £5 million to avoid purchasing the 25-year-old at last season's conclusion, he's again seeking a permanent move away from Old Trafford.
Borussia Dortmund are reportedly considering re-acquiring Sancho for the second time following his loan stint during the 2023–24 campaign, with United apparently prepared to sell him for merely £15-20 million despite investing £72 million in his transfer in 2021.
Having fallen victim to the Old Trafford jinx, Sancho will seek a new beginning elsewhere this summer, while United will be keen to generate funds and eliminate £250,000 weekly from their wage structure.
Tyrell Malacia
While not as dramatic a disappointment as players like Antony and Sancho, Tyrell Malacia's United transfer has undoubtedly been highly disappointing. The unfortunate left-back has been repeatedly sidelined by serious injuries during his Manchester tenure, accumulating only 47 senior matches over three seasons and missing the complete 2023–24 season.
Malacia spent the latter half of last season on loan at PSV Eindhoven and may be considering a permanent return to his homeland Netherlands in the upcoming weeks. He's reportedly among those requesting departures, but United will likely struggle to receive substantial compensation for his exit given his declining reputation.