Manchester United are gearing up for a busy summer transfer window as Erik ten Hag aims to build on his first season at Old Trafford by adding some extra firepower.
The Dutchman has ended the Red Devils’ long wait for silverware by lifting the Carabao Cup against Newcastle, while Man City stand between the Red Devils and the FA Cup, with the final on June 10. But suddenly, a Champions League place doesn't look so certain following the defeat to West Ham on Sunday.
United lie just a point above Liverpool, albeit with a game in hand. And the volume of Ten Hag's summer spending could depend on a top four place, not to mention the ongoing takeover battle between Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim.
Mirror Football takes a look at how United could potentially line up come the first day of next season.
Diogo Costa
David de Gea is still negotiating a new deal at Old Trafford, but it's one set to come with caveats - a wage drop and no guarantees of first team football.
And FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa is being lined-up as a possible replacement, after helping his club to back-to-back league titles. And compatriot, and namesake, Diogo Dalot has given a glowing endorsement of his former teammate ahead of a possible reunion.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Not a name who would have been included in this XI during the first half of this season.
But Wan-Bissaka has finally come of age in a United shirt, showing the sort of form which commanded a £50 million fee from Crystal Palace back in 2019. United had been heavily linked to a move for Dutch youngster Jurrien Timber, but that talk has since cooled, and it well be a battle between Wan-Bissaka and Dalot for the right back slot.
Raphael Varane
The Frenchman remains United's best centre-back despite his injury problems this term. The 30-year-old has been restricted to just 21 Premier League appearances in this campaign, but it's inconceivable to think he'll be replaced over the off-season.
Lisandro Martinez
Having silenced all the doubters since his arrival from Ajax, Lisandro Martinez will surely be given the opportunity to build his partnership with Varane. That could spell the end for club captain Harry Maguire, who is clearly behind the Argentinian in the pecking order.
Graham Sourness may not be happy with that, of course.
Luke Shaw
The England international was set to have a fight on his hands following the signing of Tyrell Malacia last summer, but has again made the left back spot his own. The late handball against Brighton was a rare black spot on an otherwise consistent campaign.
Who do you think Man Utd should sign in the summer? Share your suggestions in the comments below.
Bruno Fernandes
There will only be one question mark hanging over Bruno Fernandes at united ahead of next season, and it will have little to do with the starting XI. Simply, will the former Sporting Lisbon midfielder take the captain's armband permanently?
He remains pivotal to United, and having finally one his first silverware for the club this season, will be desperate for more.
Casemiro
The form of Casemiro, who arrived at Old Trafford from Real Madrid for big money last summer, is why the name Frenkie de Jong is no longer strongly linked with United.
The red cards aside, the Brazilian has shown all his quality and experience and become a key performer for the club. And there's no chance that Ten Hag won't be utilising him again next season.
Christian Eriksen
This is where the debate begins to rage. Antony? Alejandro Garnacho? Amad?
Instead, a fully-fit Christian Eriksen could become the final piece of a tantalising midfield trio. Injury has curtailed his influence this season, but when on the field his remarkable renaissance has been plain for all to see. Still world class.
Harry Kane
This is where things get interesting. Harry Kane has come out on Wednesday and admitted that standards have slipped at Spurs, comments which will only serve to heighten rumours of a move to United.
Critical to the transfer will be the fund available to Ten Hag, given the North London club value him upwards of £80 million. But if the England captain stays injury free, the goal return will be worth the fee.
Goncalo Ramos
As well as targeting Kane, United are preparing to step up their interest in Portugal star Goncalo Ramos with a potential record bid close to £100 million. And fans could be forgiven for salivating over the prospect of both him and Kane coming in.
It's a scenario that could also allow Kane to play the slightly deeper role he seemingly favours for club and country.
Marcus Rashford
Should both Kane and Ramos come in, don't expect that to force out Marcus Rashford after 16 Premier League goals this season.
Would Ten Hag have the bravado to field this as a front three? It may be an option saved for when chasing games, but the prospect of Rashford's pace supplementing the two (potential) star signings will be a frightening one for opponents.
