Manchester United transfer news: 'Savvy cost-cutting' means Ruben Amorim can still sign two more players this summer

Manchester United can reportedly still make two more signings this summer transfer window despite claims that they may struggle to afford expensive additions.

Manchester United can still afford to sign a defensive midfielder and goalkeeper this summer due to cost-cutting measures, a new report has claimed.

The Red Devils were said to be struggling financially as a result of the club's failure to qualify for Europe in 2024-25, but boss Ruben Amorim has still been backed heavily this window.

Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has implemented a number of unpopular and controversial cost-cutting measures, including hundreds of redundancies for staff.

There have also been reductions in the wage bill, with salary expenditure expected to be £80m lower over the next 12 months than it was for the 2023-24 season when United were in the Champions League.

The Telegraph claim that United recorded an operating profit of just under £1m for the three months to March 31, compared to a £66.2m operating loss for the same period one year earlier, and such savings mean the club can afford to sign a defensive midfielder and a goalkeeper.

Should United target Carlos Baleba this summer?

Manchester United are said to have made an approach to Brighton & Hove Albion for midfielder Carlos Baleba, though any deal is anticipated to be costly.

The Seagulls sold Moises Caicedo for a fee that could reach £115m, and they may demand an even greater sum from the Red Devils for Baleba.

While the midfielder may not be the most realistic signing, it is impossible to deny his quality, with his tenacity, tackling quality and speed making him a formidable presence out of possession.

Baleba is also adept with the ball at his feet, and the 21-year-old's ability to evade pressure would make him a valuable asset during buildup phases.

Should Amorim look to sign Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa?

United goalkeeper Andre Onana has faced significant scrutiny for his performances since joining in the summer of 2023, with the shot-stopper making a number of errors during his time at Old Trafford.

The club have been linked with Aston Villa number one Emiliano Martinez, and he would almost certainly be an improvement upon Onana considering he has proven himself at the highest level of football.

It should be noted that the World Cup winner will be 33 on September 2, and while goalkeepers can enjoy extended careers compared to outfield players, it may be risky to bring the Argentinian in on a long-term deal.

Signing Martinez would make more sense if he was brought in on a short-term contract, especially if a younger shot-stopper was also added to the squad to develop behind him.

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