It would have been inconceivable to believe that Manchester United would endure the same struggles as they experienced throughout a turbulent 2013/2014 season for the club, with the roots of recovery evident both on and off the pitch. Louis Van Gaal has injected fresh confidence and belief throughout the team, resulting in a marked improvement in performances and result that has given United a great chance to finish in the top four. However, there is still plenty of room for improvement in areas which could be addressed through shrewd business during the Summer transfer window.
Van Gaal himself has come under criticism for integrating tactics that does not suit the players, particularly in defence where Manchester United have looked vulnerable at times. There is still time for the Dutchman to make his move in the transfer market to bring in players that will not only add more quality in key areas, but also improve their odds across bookies.com for United to start the new season in a hope to challenge for the title.
Defenders
Losing Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic during the summer created a substantial void, which Manchester United has arguably failed to address. They allowed three players who brought considerable quality and experience to leave Old Trafford, and although Marco Rojo and Luke Shaw are exciting signings for the future, they joined a group of defenders which lack a true leader or commanding presence. Injuries have also left Van Gaal seriously short of defensive options on numerous occasions this season, and although Tyler Blackett and Paddy McNair have performed admirably, adding a strong defensive leader during the summer would be crucial for the Red Devils. Mats Hummels would undoubtedly be the player Manchester United fans wish to see at Old Trafford, while Marquinhos, Aymeric Laporte and Nicolas Otamendi have also got what it takes to be a United defender.
Defensive midfielder
Manchester United’s defending has come under heavy criticism this season, but it could be argued that the protection in front of them has not been of the standard required. Michael Carrick and Daley Blind look an ideal partnership when they are paired together in central midfield, but the former’s early season struggles with injury highlighted a lack of options in that department.
It may be the perfect time for Manchester United to secure the services of long-term target Kevin Strootman, who would bring real quality to the team; the 24-year-old continues to recover from a serious knee injury and is already showing signs of returning to his best. It will take a considerable amount of money to persuade Roma to sell their prized asset, but Strootman would certainly aid Manchester United’s pursuit of a trophy. Former United player Paul Pogba has also been linked with a sensational mega-money return to Old Trafford, while Axel Witsel is also another name to come out of the rumour mill.