Carrick faces four transfer headaches as United's window deadline looms

Michael Carrick has spent £85m reshaping Manchester United’s squad this summer, but with the transfer window closing on September 1, four significant gaps remain unresolved at Old Trafford.

Left-back cover

Luke Shaw remains United’s most senior option at left-back, a concern given the congested fixture schedule ahead. Newcastle’s Lewis Hall had been identified as the primary target, but a deal for the England under-21 international now appears increasingly unlikely. Alternatives include Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly, Fulham’s Antonee Robinson, and Club Brugge’s Joaquin Seys, with the Belgian club reportedly seeking around £30m for the 22-year-old — a fee that would make Seys an affordable back-up option.

Midfield reinforcement

The signings of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos have bolstered United’s engine room, but Carrick is believed to want at least one further addition before the window shuts. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton has emerged as a key target, with the 22-year-old highly regarded across the Premier League. Palace, however, value Wharton at approximately £85m, making any deal a significant outlay on top of what United have already committed.

Marcus Rashford’s future

Perhaps the most pressing decision concerns Rashford. The England forward spent last season on loan at Barcelona after falling out of favour under former manager Ruben Amorim, and had been keen to make the move permanent. Barcelona opted against activating his release clause, citing his wage demands, and Rashford has since returned to Carrington for pre-season. For now, he appears set to begin the new Premier League campaign at Old Trafford, though his long-term status at the club remains unresolved.

Outgoings still to finalise

United have already moved on several players — Rasmus Hojlund, Casemiro, Radek Vitek, Tyler Fredericson, and Altay Bayindir have all left, with Bayindir heading to Celta Vigo on loan. Karl Darlow arrived on a free transfer as back-up to first-choice goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Further departures before September 1 could free up both wage budget and squad space, giving Carrick greater flexibility to complete his remaining targets.

With the deadline fast approaching, United’s ability to land Wharton and resolve the Rashford situation will go a long way to determining how well-equipped Carrick’s side are when the Premier League season gets fully underway.