Manchester United are facing a pivotal summer transfer window under the INEOS regime. After years of reckless spending and a lack of a coherent recruitment strategy, the focus at Old Trafford has shifted: it’s no longer just about who arrives, but how much value they bring to Ruben Amorim’s evolving project.
While the club has previously been guilty of overpaying for talent, the 2026 summer market offers a rare opportunity to secure elite reinforcements without the “United Tax.” By targeting the free agent market, United could effectively save over £100m in transfer fees money that could be reinvested into Amorim’s long-term vision.
The Midfield General: Leon Goretzka
The first name on the list is a serial winner. Leon Goretzka is set to conclude his trophy-laden eight-year stint at Bayern Munich this summer. At 31, the German international remains a physical powerhouse, recently proving his worth with a dominant display and a goal against Werder Bremen.
While United have long-term interests in Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, both players carry eye-watering price tags in the region of £70m–£100m. Signing Goretzka on a free transfer wouldn’t just provide a versatile partner for Kobbie Mainoo; it would allow United to delay a massive investment in a younger profile until the market stabilizes.
Goretzka isn’t a like-for-like Casemiro replacement, but his ability to drive play from deep fits the intensity Amorim demands from his double-pivot.
The Attack Reinforcement: Dusan Vlahovic
With Benjamin Sesko established as the frontline leader at Old Trafford, the departure of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee looks increasingly likely. United need elite competition, and Dusan Vlahovic represents an extraordinary market opportunity.
Despite a turbulent time at Juventus, Vlahovic’s underlying numbers remain elite, averaging a goal every 2.5 games. His Champions League pedigree including goals against heavyweights like Manchester City proves he can handle the pressure of the big stage.
Securing a 26-year-old striker of Vlahovic’s profile for £0 is the definition of “smart business.” He offers a similar physical presence to Sesko but brings a different level of penalty-box predatory instinct that United have lacked since the prime years of Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The Verdict: A Shift in Philosophy
If Manchester United can land both Goretzka and Vlahovic, they address two critical squad gaps while keeping £100m in the bank. For Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ruben Amorim, this summer isn’t just about winning games it’s about winning the market.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
