Manchester United are expected to sign a new winger this summer, with Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo the only recognised senior wide attackers currently available at Old Trafford and Michael Carrick’s side in need of another explosive option capable of stretching defences and consistently winning one-versus-one situations.
The requirement is specific: Man United want a winger with pace, directness and the individual quality to change matches in difficult moments. Here are the four names being linked with a move to Old Trafford and the case for each one.
Iliman Ndiaye – Everton
Ndiaye is one of the most exciting attacking players on the list. The 26-year-old Everton winger has shown flashes of brilliance and continues to develop into a dangerous forward who is capable of playing on either flank. He possesses the individual quality to completely change the momentum of matches in difficult moments, and his high work rate would be specifically appreciated by Michael Carrick. He would add immediate attacking depth and fits the profile Carrick is looking for in terms of pressing energy and direct running.
Rafael Leao – AC Milan
Leao is desperate to play in the Premier League, and his representatives could offer him to United with AC Milan understood to be demanding at least £43 million to sanction his departure. At 26, he already has nearly 300 appearances for Milan across seven years at the club and brings enormous experience alongside his obvious quality as a traditional left winger who cuts inside in a manner that will remind United supporters of Marcus Rashford. His defensive work rate remains the significant concern, and that weakness could be further exposed in the Premier League where wide players are expected to contribute defensively as well as offensively.
Morgan Rogers – Aston Villa
Rogers could be a dream signing for the Red Devils. The Aston Villa star is capable of operating from the left wing but could also eventually develop into a long-term successor to Bruno Fernandes in the number ten role. He has been in sensational form for Villa and is set to represent England at the upcoming World Cup, which will provide an extended platform to further elevate his reputation.
Adding Rogers alongside Cunha and Mbeumo could instantly transform United’s attack into one of the most dangerous units in the league. The obstacle is Villa’s valuation. They are reportedly determined to demand at least £100 million before entertaining any offer, a figure that will test the limits of what INEOS are prepared to commit for a single wide player.
Yan Diomande – RB Leipzig
Diomande is widely regarded as one of the brightest young attacking talents in European football, with breathtaking pace and elite dribbling skills that have attracted significant attention from some of the biggest clubs on the continent. RB Leipzig value him extremely highly and are expected to demand more than £110 million for his signature. Liverpool and PSG are already heavily interested in the Ivory Coast forward, meaning Man United would face serious competition if they enter the race.
INEOS are prioritising midfield in this window, but have already demonstrated their willingness to produce unexpected blockbuster signings, as they did with Benjamin Sesko last summer when finances appeared stretched. Diomande at over £110 million would require exactly that kind of bold decision-making again.