Sir Jim Ratcliffe has three-player transfer plan but is unsure on one Man Utd position

Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to sign a centre-back, right-back and striker this summer to kickstart his Manchester United rebuild.

The Red Devils’ new co-owner has already promised to invest in the playing squad in an effort to get the side challenging for the Premier League title again. While there remains uncertainty over the manager, Ratcliffe already has a good idea where his funds will be used.

According to The Telegraph, a centre-back is at the top of his shortlist. Former Real Madrid star Raphael Varane ’s contract only has a year left to run, while there is doubt over the futures of Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof.

The Red Devils are expected to target Everton ’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi. The pair are set to command a fee in excess of £50m each.

Ratcliffe is also intent on investing at right-back. United currently have Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka vying for the position - albeit the latter has just a year left on his contract and has regularly been linked with a return to former club Crystal Palace.

Another striker is also on the Red Devils’ shopping list. £72m forward Rasmus Hojlund has found some bright form since his switch but there is a desire to get the Dane more support.

While that completes the key positions for investment, there is also a debate over signing a new midfielder. It is suggested that the future of Casemiro could decide whether the Red Devils pursue a new midfielder.

The Brazilian is only in his second season as a Red Devil and has two years left on his deal. However, he is now 32 and has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.

Man United are interested in a deal for Jarrad Branthwaite
(Image: Getty Images)

Who do you think Man United should sign in the summer? Share your suggestions in the comments below

Speaking about his plans for the recruitment side of things at the club last month, Ratcliffe said: "I think recruitment in the modern game is critical. Manchester United have clearly spent a lot of money but they haven't done as well as some other clubs.

"So when I was talking about being best in class in all aspects of football, recruitment is clearly top of the list. I'm more thinking about getting recruitment in a good place in the future. There's not much I can do about what's happened in the past. So our thinking is all about how we become first in class in recruitment going forward. Which means you need the right people."

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