Manchester United have a huge task ahead of them this summer, looking to transform the side in their ambitions of pushing back up the Premier League table in 2025/26.
Ruben Amorim is the man tasked with turning such a situation around at Old Trafford, but after taking the reins back in November, the side continued the slump they endured under former boss Erik ten Hag.
However, the ongoing transfer window presents the 40-year-old with a fresh opportunity to improve his first-team squad and offload players not at the desired level.
Matheus Cunha has already made the move to join the Red Devils this summer, but multiple other additions are expected as the club look to reach the next level.
It’s unclear how much will be provided by the hierarchy during this window, but it’s vital that key departments of the pitch are strengthened in due course.
The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer
The midfield department has been one area that has seen improvements targeted, with Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney just one name touted with a move to United.
Atalanta star Ederson is another name mentioned with a move to Old Trafford this window, but he may be out of range, which could lead to other options being considered.
However, a new name has been mentioned in the form of Bayern Munich star Joao Palhinha, who could depart the Allianz Arena this summer, according to TBR Football.
The report claims he is holding talks with the German outfit over his future, which could lead to the Red Devils making a move for his signature in the coming weeks.
It also states that a deal for the Portuguese international would likely be a loan move, after he only moved to the Bundesliga from Fulham in a £47.5m deal last summer.
Why United’s latest target could be perfect for Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes has been a shining light within the United squad over the last few years, still reaching astronomical levels despite their recent clump in 2024/25.
The Portuguese international joined the club back in January 2020 and has been a phenomenal addition ever since, notching 20 plus combined goals and assists in every season he’s spent at Old Trafford.
Even this season, after finishing in 15th place in the Premier League, he registered 37 goals contributions and subsequently being nominated for the PFA Player of the Year award.
He’s recently been subjected to major interest from Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, but he rejected a mammoth contract worth in the region of £700k-per-week to stay and take the Red Devils back towards their former glory.
However, as a result of the lack of quality, the 30-year-old has been forced to operate in a slightly deeper role rather he’s used to, playing in part of a midfield two rather than in behind the striker.
The potential arrival of Palhinha could change such a situation, handing the side the needed ball-winning option that’s been desperately needed over recent months.
The 29-year-old, who’s been labelled “incredible” by Squawka Sport, averaged 1.7 tackles per 90 in the Bundesliga, winning 70% of the tackles he entered – showcasing his ability to regain possession.
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Joao Palhinha’s stats for Bayern in the Bundesliga (2024/25) |
|
|---|---|
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Statistics (per 90) |
Tally |
|
Games played |
17 |
|
Minutes played |
667 |
|
Pass accuracy |
93% |
|
Progressive passes |
4.7 |
|
Tackles won |
1.7 |
|
Tackle success |
70% |
|
Duels won |
7.1 |
|
Stats via FotMob |
|
His talents have also been reflected in his tally of 7.1 duels won per 90, 2.7 of which have been aerially, demonstrating the commanding presence he possesses without the ball.
However, he’d also completed 93% of the passes he’s attempted, making 4.7 progressive passes per 90, handing Bruno the ammunition to improve his own tallies should he move to Old Trafford.
Their time playing together at national level could certainly help the club in their quest, with the pair having the opportunity to star together on a regular basis.
A loan move would help provide an immediate improvement on the current situation, with such a signing potentially playing a huge role in their future success under Amorim this campaign.
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