United identify forward options
Manchester United want to sign another forward to help out Rasmus Hojlund, according to The Independent.
Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee, Brentford’s Ivan Toney, and Jonathan David of Lille are all under consideration.
The paper reports: “Manchester United have put Joshua Zirkzee, Ivan Toney and Jonathan David on their striking shortlist as they look to strengthen their attack this summer.
“Manager Erik ten Hag has admitted he wanted to sign two centre-forwards last summer and, after Anthony Martial was released at the end of the season, Rasmus Hojlund is the only specialist No. 9 in his squad.
“The Dane scored 16 goals in his first season at Old Trafford but United felt he was overworked because Martial was often injured and they are now looking for an alternative.
“They are also expected to target a central midfielder and a centre-back, with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite a potential target to replace the departed Raphael Varane.”
Arsenal draw up Sesko alternatives
Like United, Arsenal are also looking to bring in a forward as they look to strengthen ahead of next season.
The Mirror believes that Sporting Lisbon’s Marcus Edwards, Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and Wolves’ Pedro Neto could all be in the frame.
The outlet writes: “Arsenal have abandoned their pursuit of a new striker after being rejected by Benjamin Sesko.
"The Gunners had previously prioritised a move for the Red Bull Leipzig striker. They were considering activating the £55million release clause written into his contract with the German side.
“Arsenal weren’t the only side interested though. Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea were also keeping a close eye on Sesko. It now appears none of them will be signing him. The Slovenian striker has penned a new deal with Leipzig until 2029.
“Mikel Arteta is instead keen to add to his wide options before the start of the 2024/25 campaign. The Gunners have already been linked with a host of wingers including Sporting Lisbon star Marcus Edwards, Wolves ’ Pedro Neto and Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao.
“Away from a winger, the Gunners are also keen to add to their midfield options Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi is a long-term target of the North London side.”
Ten Hag to be given new deal
After reports that Manchester United have decided to keep Erik ten Hag on as manager, the club have decided to give the Dutchman a new deal.
He will be offered two more years at Old Trafford after winning the FA Cup at the end of the domestic season.
The Telegraph states: “Erik ten Hag is likely to be offered a two-year contract extension to his current deal at Manchester United.
“It was decided, after a meeting on Tuesday, that Ten Hag would remain at the club following months of uncertainty over his future.
“Ten Hag had grown increasingly frustrated as United’s end-of-season review stretched into a third week, fearing it would affect the transfer plans as well as his own position.
“The Dutchman wanted to carry on and has agreed to talks over a new extended contract. A preliminary discussion has taken place with United, suggesting they have not reached details over the length of a deal. There is an expectation, however, it will be two more years.”
Mengi attracting interest
Teden Mengi could be on his way from Luton Town in the summer transfer window.
Fulham are interested in the player, but Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen have both shown interest as well.
The Evening Standard reports: “Fulham are interested in Luton Town defender Teden Mengi and plan to sign at least two centre-backs this summer.
“Manager Marco Silva insisted last month that the club must strengthen in central defence.
“The need for more centre-backs grew last week when Tosin Adarabioyo’s exit was confirmed, with the 26-year-old leaving on a free transfer to join rivals Chelsea.
“The defender is also reportedly of interest to Crystal Palace and was watched at Kenilworth Road last season by Bayer Leverkusen’s chief UK-based scout, Matthew Green, when the Hatters lost 3-1 to Sheffield United.”
