Man United have been busy reshaping their squad before the Manchester derby, with fans buzzing over the potential of a dream XI. After spending heavily this summer, the club has added firepower up front and depth across the squad, but speculation remains about two further signings that could elevate Erik ten Hag’s men.
Confirmed arrivals strengthen the squad
United have invested more than £200m in a dramatic rebuild. Matheus Cunha arrived from Wolves for around £62.5m, while Bryan Mbeumo completed a switch from Brentford worth £65m plus add-ons. The forward line has also been boosted by Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig for £66.3m, giving United a new attacking trio. Younger additions such as Diego Leon, Enzo Kana-Biyik, and Harley Emsden-James bring further depth.
In goal, Senne Lammens joined from Royal Antwerp for £18.1m, with his arrival coinciding with a verbal agreement for Andre Onana to join Trabzonspor on loan. That leaves Lammens and Altay Bayındır competing for the No.1 spot, alongside veteran Tom Heaton. These moves mark a decisive summer of change at Old Trafford.
Dream XI hinges on midfield and goalkeeper targets
Despite the arrivals, United are viewed as two signings short of their “dream XI.” The club pursued Conor Gallagher on deadline day, but a deal collapsed after Atletico Madrid demanded a permanent transfer. Attention then turned to Carlos Baleba, though Brighton’s £100m price tag left negotiations at a standstill. Brief speculation around Gianluigi Donnarumma also surfaced, but United appear committed to their current goalkeeping options.
Mason Mount has returned to fitness and gives Amorim an extra midfield option for the derby after his recent injury struggles. With Tyrell Malacia linked to a move to Turkey and Harry Maguire declining a Saudi switch, squad reshaping continues on the fringes.
Author’s opinion
United’s transfer spree has delivered energy and excitement, but midfield remains the missing puzzle piece. While the new attack promises goals, the absence of a top-class central option like Baleba may still hurt against elite opposition. Two signings short, Man United face City with hope, but also with questions about balance in their so-called dream XI.
