Manchester United's Plan to Save Over €1.3 Million Per Week

Manchester United aims to free up at least £1.2 million (€1.37M) per week from their wage bill to make room for new signings next summer, according to The Telegraph. The Red Devils' strategy involves offloading high-earning players such as Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund, and André Onana, whose combined annual salaries exceed a staggering €71 million.

The departure of the Brazilian midfielder at the end of the season is already confirmed, and Sancho is also expected to leave the club when his contract expires in June. Joining them are forwards Rashford and Hojlund, currently on loan at Barcelona and Napoli, respectively, who could make permanent moves. The British newspaper also reports that Manchester United will seek a buyer for the Cameroonian goalkeeper, who is currently on loan at Trabzonspor in Turkey.

This financial restructuring is crucial, especially as the club, currently third in the Premier League, is well-positioned to qualify for the Champions League. Qualification for the lucrative competition would trigger an automatic 25% salary increase for most players, adding further pressure on the club's finances.

In addition to potential wage increases, Manchester United faces approximately €217 million in payments this year related to past transfer debts. Freeing up funds through player sales is therefore essential to gain financial flexibility and invest in strengthening the squad in key positions.

The top priority for the summer transfer window is finding a long-term replacement for Casemiro. Targets include Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, Sandro Tonali from Newcastle, and Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace. The need to reinforce the midfield could become even more pressing if Manuel Ugarte, formerly of Sporting, who has struggled to adapt since his £50.5 million transfer from PSG in 2024, decides to seek more playing time elsewhere.

In other movements, Harry Maguire is expected to sign a new contract with reduced salary terms, below his current €217,000 per week. However, this saving could be partially offset by the impending contract renewal for young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The club is also in the market for a left-winger and defensive reinforcements.

Regarding loaned players, Barcelona holds a €30 million buy option for Marcus Rashford. Meanwhile, Napoli will have a €44 million obligation to buy Rasmus Hojlund if the Italian club qualifies for the Champions League. Napoli's sporting director, Giovanni Manna, has already described the signing as a "formality."

André Onana's situation is more uncertain. Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan has expressed doubts about the Turkish club's ability to afford a permanent transfer, both in terms of salary and transfer fee.