With ongoing speculation surrounding Marcus Rashford’s future at Old Trafford, Manchester United are expected to see a real exodus during the summer transfer window.
While it remains unclear whether Erik ten Hag will be released at the end of the season, The Telegraph reports that the Premier League heavyweights have only made three first-team stars untouchable.
Ahead of what is likely to be a crucial summer rebuild behind the scenes at Old Trafford, we take a look at the trio of first-team superstars who must not leave the red half of Manchester under any circumstances.
Rasmus Hojlund
While Rasumus Hojlund may have struggled to find his footing following his blockbuster £72million move from Italian club Atalanta last summer, the 21-year-old has quickly cemented his place as a fan favorite at Old Trafford.
Although the Denmark international failed to open his Premier League account before getting on the scoresheet in the 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Boxing Day, he certainly used that first goal as a basis on which to build could build.
With eight goals in all competitions since the start of the new year, many in the red half of Manchester are excited by Hojlund’s development and believe they have a legitimate number nine who can lead their attack for many years to come.
After the 12-time capped international made it clear how happy he is with life at Old Trafford, it is no surprise that United feel the £72million investment was money well spent.
Hojlund was only behind Bruno Fernandes in United’s Golden Boot challenge this season and has certainly had an impressive first season with the Premier League heavyweights.
Kobbie Mainoo
While many may not have even known about Kobbie Mainoo before the start of the 2023/24 season, United’s homegrown prospect has certainly arrived on the scene and his stock is at a red-hot high.
The 19-year-old sensation, who has become one of the Premier League’s hottest young talents, has become a key part of ten Hag’s first-team plans and has already made 20 appearances in the top flight this season.
With many tipping Mainoo as United’s biggest hope of the season, it’s no secret that the Reds are keen to tie the Stockport-born star down to a new contract in the coming weeks.
As he enjoys life among England’s elite, it is believed Ten Hag’s side have offered a new six-year deal that would allow the midfielder to triple his current wage bill and earn around £60,000 a week.
Mainoo made his senior England debut during the international break in March and received a string of praise from Gareth Southgate. Now he dreams of the chance to be part of the Three Lions squad for this summer’s European Championships.
Alejandro Garnacho
Despite Alejandro Garnacho being at the center of a public spat with ten Hag last month, the Argentina international continues to play a leading role for the under-pressure Dutchman.
With the exception of two of the Reds’ 34 Premier League games this season, the 19-year-old is considered one of the hottest young talents to come out of United’s academy in a long time.
Garnacho scored seven top goals this year and once again established himself on the international front with the reigning world champions. He also received high praise from the new hierarchy at Old Trafford.
Amid ongoing speculation that Brazilian flop Antony could be forced out of Manchester for a potentially cheaper deal this summer, Garnacho is expected to be one of United’s key figures next season.
Although it was suggested last year that the five-time international was attracting interest from clubs in Spain and Italy, the Reds have made it clear they have no intention of cashing in.