Summer transfer plans and Lammens' impact
John asked: Besides central midfield, what other areas of the team are United looking at strongly, as rumours are of a new left-back and/or left-winger? How much does the budget depend on the Champions League? Simon answered: Clearly, United will have more money available if they qualify for the Champions League but I don't think that means the general desire to drive down wages costs will change.
[BBC] [Getty Images] We asked for your Manchester United questions for reporter Simon Stone during the international break. In the first part of Friday's Q&A, he focuses on United's potential transfer plans for the summer window and one of last summer's additions, goalkeeper Senne Lammens. John asked : Besides central midfield, what other areas of the team are United looking at strongly, as rumours are of a new left-back and/or left-winger?
How much does the budget depend on the Champions League? Simon answered: Clearly, United will have more money available if they qualify for the Champions League but I don't think that means the general desire to drive down wages costs will change. Don't forget also, Casemiro, Jadon Sancho and, almost certainly, Marcus Rashford will be leaving and they are high earners.
On the basis United were in the market for Antoine Semenyo in January, it feels as though they will try to strengthen the wide areas this summer. They have lost a lot of 'wingers' since Ruben Amorim was appointed. However, they also have a lot of number 10s, so it will be interesting to see how United decide to reshape their squad.
Holding midfield is key though - and likely to be the most expensive. I am expecting at least two players to come in there given Casemiro is leaving and there are more games. If Manuel Ugarte left as well it might be three, unless someone like Mason Mount drops back.