Nicky Butt believes Manchester United will offload a minimum of 4 players at the top of the season as a part of a summer rebuild at Old Trafford.
United confirmed Champions League qualification with victory over Liverpool last Sunday, returning to European football’s top table for the primary time in three years.
Focusing solely on the Premier League this term has paid off however the club must now ensure they’ve a squad able to balancing domestic and European football matters next season.
Midfield is an area that needs urgent attention with Casemiro set to depart the club when his contract expires this summer.
With Manuel Ugarte also tipped to depart, it leaves Kobbie Mainoo as United’s only senior midfield option with the club trying to sign a minimum of two players to strengthen that area of the pitch.
While United need numbers, former star Butt believes a lot of those in reserves are ‘average’ and sees Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee, Tyrell Malacia and Noussair Mazraoui all being shown the door.
Butt can also be keen for his old side to herald an alternative choice at centre-half, suggesting Leny Yoro may very well be shipped out on loan.
‘They definitely need a top centre back and two midfielders, 100 per cent,’ Butt told Paddy Power.
‘For those who take a look at all the highest clubs they’ve options to select from.
‘The 2 midfielders are for depth. You’ve got to construct a squad, you’ll have injuries and suspensions.
‘It was highlighted when United played Leeds, the team that day was so young and so average.
‘They’re going to eliminate a number of – Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, Tyrell Malacia, Noussair Mazraoui. Lenny Yoro might go on loan.
‘They need a number of players, not all starters, but they’re going to be playing 60 games next season. You wish a squad.’
Aurelien Tchouameni, Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton are among the many midfielders United are fascinated with signing this summer.
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