Manchester United Transfer News Roundup: Red Devils eyeing Serie A star, club wanted Argentinean ace in 2023, and more - July 7, 2024

Manchester United are expected to make multiple changes to their squad following a disappointing 2023/24 campaign. Erik ten Hag's team finished eighth in the Premier League but managed to win the FA Cup.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils are gaining ground in their efforts to sign a Serie A striker this summer. Elsewhere, the Premier League giants considered a move for an Argentinean goalkeeper last summer.

On that note, let's look at the major Manchester United transfer stories from July 7, 2024.

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Manchester United eyeing Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee

Manchester United are in advanced talks to sign Joshua Zirkzee this summer, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Red Devils are eager to add a new No. 9 to their roster after an underwhelming campaign in front of goal.

Zirkzee has popped up on their radar following a series of eye-catching displays for Bologna. The 23-year-old registered 12 goals and seven assists from 37 games across competitions last season and is also being eyed by Arsenal and Juventus.

In his column for Caught Offside, Romano said that Manchester United are in constant touch with the player's entourage to facilitate a move.

“I can confirm that Joshua Zirkzee remains an important target, he’s high on their list. Between Friday and Saturday there were new contacts between United and the agents of Zirkzee. So, what’s the situation? We know Zirkzee has been on United’s list and that the €40m release clause is there – it’s valid until August, so United have time, but the internal decision will be crucial,” wrote Romano.

He continued:

“United are now advancing in talks with Zirkzee and his agent. Zirkzee already reached an agreement with AC Milan, and Man United would match that proposal with similar numbers, but Milan don’t want to pay the big commission, while United are prepared to meet that number."

Romano added that Erik ten Hag is also talking to Zirkzee and is eager to bring him to Old Trafford.

“Erik ten Hag wants the player and has been calling Zirkzee on a regular basis, but then other key figures at Old Trafford will also have to decide, such as key figures deciding on transfers like Dan Ashworth, Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell. So, the internal discussion is ongoing, and it’s up to them now to decide if they want to proceed with Zirkzee or go for another player,” wrote Romano.

Zirkzee could be an able replacement for Anthony Martial, who left Old Trafford as a free agent this summer.

Red Devils wanted Emiliano Martinez in 2023

Emiliano Martinez

Manchester United were in talks to sign Emiliano Martinez last summer, according to the player's agent Gonzalo Goni. Erik ten Hag was looking for a new goalkeeper last year following David de Gea's departure.

The Dutch manager ultimately decided to bring in Andre Onana from Inter Milan for the job. However, the Cameroonian has endured a mixed campaign, registering 13 clean sheets from 51 games and conceding 83 goals.

Speaking to ESPN Futbol 12, Goni stated that the Old Trafford hierarchy wanted Martinez, but Ten Hag opted to sign Onana instead.

“Last year he was very close to Manchester United, the coach chose Onana, because he already knew him. But everyone at Manchester United later maintained that the ideal goalkeeper to win was Emiliano Martínez,” said Goni.

Martinez has gone from strength to strength with club and country in recent times and was key to Aston Villa's rise last season.

Jonny Evans in talks for a new deal, says journalist

Jonny Evans

Jonny Evans is in talks to sign a one-year deal at Old Trafford, according to journalist Dharmesh Sheth. The 36-year-old joined Manchester United last season on a one-year deal and ended up making 30 appearances for the club.

Evans helped the club deal with the injuries to Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, and Harry Maguire. Erik ten Hag is pleased with his efforts and wants him to be a part of the squad for the upcoming campaign.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Sheth pointed out that Evans made the most appearances among all centre-backs for the Red Devils in the league last season.

“One player who was at Manchester United last season was Johnny Evans. He stayed there for one season, that one-year contract and I think he just came in to be a good influence around the place. Maybe to come in [to the team] here and there," said Sheth.

He continued:

“As such, there were the injury problems at United and he made 23 Premier League appearances for them last season. That was the most of any of their recognised centre backs, believe it or not, which is an incredible stat. With all of that in mind, United continue talks with Evans and his representatives over another one-year contract.”

Evans has now appeared 228 times for the English giants in his career.