Former Red Rio Ferdinand has had his say on which players Manchester United should offload to raise funds for transfers this summer.
As he closes off on the first season of his tenure, Erik ten Hag will know that reinforcements in the forthcoming transfer window are crucial if United want to compete on all fronts next term.
However, with the ownership situation still lacking clarity, he’ll no doubt be growing frustrated with the uncertainty of his budget, so overseeing outgoings may be necessary.
United have carried deadwood in the squad for some time now but Ten Hag seems to be a manager that is ruthless when it comes to cutting ties, which is key when wanting to build a world-class team.
Ferdinand chooses departing Reds
Speaking on his FIVE podcast, Ferdinand suggested that Ten Hag should sell Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire, Anthony Elanga and Anthony Martial. The quartet have seen their game time drastically reduced this campaign and could play even less of a role after the break.
Ferdinand said: “Scott McTominay hasn’t played much football this year, [not] as much as he would’ve liked I don’t think. If I was him as a young player, I’d probably start assessing my options in that situation. Having real hard conversations with the club, do you see me as part of it or not? Fred seems to be above him in the pecking order, Christian Eriksen and Casemiro obviously are as well. So, if I’m that far down in the pecking order I’d have to start looking at it, and I don’t think he’ll have a problem finding a club, he’s a very, very good footballer. I think he could add a lot of value to a club.
“Harry Maguire has to look at a new option for himself, unless he says, ‘I’m happy to be third or fourth choice’. [Aaron] Wan-Bissaka’s played himself back into being a very good member of the squad, dependable.
“[Anthony] Elanga maybe, he’s not getting a chance or an opportunity. [Anthony] Martial hasn’t proved that he can stay fit or consistent enough. I think if you got rid of those three there or four with Elanga maybe, that’s £100 million sitting right there. Elanga isn’t getting the football he deserves. He’s a young player, he did well when he came in, still not getting a chance. Big players in front of him but I think someone like that wants to play first-team football.”
