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Manchester United are working to improve their squad this summer after finishing eighth in the Premier League last season. Erik ten Hag, however, managed to secure his job by winning the FA Cup.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils have set their sights on a Chelsea full-back. Elsewhere, Bruno Fernandes has been backed to stay at Old Trafford.
On that note, let's look at the major Manchester United transfer stories from July 31, 2024.
Manchester United eyeing Ben Chilwell, says journalist
Manchester United are eyeing a move for Ben Chilwell this summer, according to journalist Alex Crook. Erik ten Hag struggled to cope with the absence of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia last season. While the Englishman battled injuries and appeared just 15 times across competitions, Malacia was sidelined for the entire campaign due to injuries.
The Dutch manager is likely to seek a solution this summer and has been linked with multiple candidates for the job. Chilwell is apparently on their radar as well, although his injury record doesn't make for a good read either.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Crook insisted that the 27-year-old is no longer part of plans at Chelsea.
“Chilwell doesn’t really fit into his system. What he likes his fullbacks to do is a bit like Pep Guardiola, because we know he’s a Guardiola disciple. He wants to push on into midfield and play that hybrid role. That isn’t really Chilwell,” said Crook.
He added:
“He’s an out-and-out left back. Maresca has said that. I think there is a possibility that if there is interest, I know he’s on Manchester United’s list of potential targets this summer.”
Chilwell has missed 100 games for club and country due to various injuries in the past three seasons.
Bruno Fernandes not looking to leave, says journalist
Bruno Fernandes is not in talks to leave Manchester United this summer, according to journalist Melissa Reddy. The Portuguese midfielder was handed the armband last season at Old Trafford and was decisive for the club once again.
Fernandes registered 15 goals and 13 assists from 48 games across competitions. However, with multiple changes underway at the club since the arrival of INEOS, the 29-year-old's future has also been subject to speculation.
However, speaking on United Stand, Reddy insisted that Fernandes has given his heart to the Red Devils.
“With Bruno, there were so many stories about him and the potential of him leaving. There was, you know, all the speculation, but never for one second did I think Bruno Fernandes was leaving Manchester United, because when you speak to him and when you spend time with him, you understand how much this club means to him,” said Reddy.
She continued:
“He actually wears this club, like it’s on him all the time. He assumes so much responsibility. Now he gets grief sometimes because he can get frustrated on the pitch, and it becomes quite visible. And that’s fair enough. I think that’s an understandable criticism. It’s the right kind of criticism. But he genuinely cares about this club, loves this club.”
The Portuguese is under contract at Old Trafford until 2026.
West Ham United close to signing Aaron Wan-Bissaka
West Ham United are close to securing the services of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, according to Sky Sports. The Englishman is no longer the first choice at Manchester United and the club are willing to let him go.
Acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano has already reported that the Red Devils have agreed personal terms with Bayern Munich's Noussair Mazraoui this summer. However, a move for the Moroccan right-back depends on Wan-Bissaka's exit.
It now appears that the Englishman is on his way to London. The 26-year-old has received criticism for his lack of attacking adventure, but his defensive discipline can be an asset for the Hammers. The player is under contract at Old Trafford until 2025, and Manchester United are not planning to hand him a new deal. A move, as such, can be beneficial to all parties involved.
