This summer could be a hugely interesting one from Man United’s point of view, given that it will be the first one where Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group can set the tone in transfer discussions and negotiations.
Whilst it might appear that there’ll be a revolution at Old Trafford, the short and medium-term sustainability of the first-team squad would be better served by an evolution.
Wholesale changes are unlikely to make too much sense at this point in time, but a handful of well thought out purchases and diligent business more generally could set the Red Devils up nicely for the 2024/25 campaign.
It isn’t clear at this stage whether Erik ten Hag will still be at the helm by then, but the Dutchman has provided an intriguing update on two defensive stalwarts nevertheless.
? Erik ten Hag on Rapha Varane and John Evans out of contract in June.
“We haven’t made the decision yet”. pic.twitter.com/XEJ1QJrt19
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 8, 2024
According to a post on X (formerly Twitter) from transfer expert and CaughtOffside columnist, Fabrizio Romano, the Dutchman has noted that “we haven’t made a decision yet” with regards to the futures of Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane.
United have struggled defensively throughout the 2023/24 season, both in terms of injuries and the loss of form from key players.
If the Red Devils want to be up there challenging for honours again next season, then having a settled defence is a pre-requisite for ten Hag or whomever may take his place in the dugout.