Manchester United will likely be in the market for a right-sided winger this summer, with Antony struggling to reach expectations from his move from Ajax in 2022.
Jadon Sancho, another player who was competing for a starting place in that position going into this season, is unlikely to play for the club again after a public feud with Erik ten Hag.
Since the pair fell out, Sancho has been loaned back to Borussia Dortmund and there have been suggestions that another loan is lined up for next season.
United were linked with a move for Raphinha before he joined Barcelona in 2022 and there have been suggestions that interest has been reignited as the Brazilian struggles to nail down a spot in Xavi Hernandez’s side.
Now, amid United’s reported interest in the former Sporting Portugal star, it is being claimed that Tottenham Hotspur are ready to enter the race to sign him.
That’s according to Catalan outlet Sport, via TeamTALK, who say that Tottenham are ‘poised to make a move’ for Raphinha amid United’s interest.
It’s claimed that Tottenham’s interest in Rapinha is far from new, with the London club admiring the left-footed star for the entirety of his professional career.
From United’s viewpoint, it remains to be seen how they decide to tackle the upcoming transfer window. It’s glaringly obvious that some areas are in desperate need of attention and the right-wing position is one of them.
Signing a centre-back will also be high on Ten Hag’s wishlist and perhaps, that will be the Dutchman’s priority. Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans are both out of contract at the end of the season and there are question-marks over the futures of Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire.
Lisandro Martinez has barely featured over the last 12 months after suffering several serious injuries.
United will be on the look out for a number of players to strengthen the first team and squad generally.
Maguire, Lindelof, Varane and Evans are all possibly needing to be replaced at centre back.
There is also talk of replacing Wan-Bissaka (he is an old fashioned defender, not a modern attacking defender) and Malacia also has not proven his worth, whilst Shaw has spent a considerable amount of time on the treatment table. Williams and Fernandez are out on loan and likely to be sold. So, two attack minded wing backs are required.
Two defensive midfielders are required, to replace Casemiro, Eriksen and Amrabat, whilst another central midfielder to cover / provide competition for Mainoo, is needed.
In attack, Sancho will likely leave on another loan, whilst Pellistri will be sold and Martial will leave at the end of his contract. United need a right winger and a striker.