Manchester United could continue reshaping their squad next summer after completing another busy transfer window under Michael Carrick.
United concentrated heavily on strengthening midfield, bringing Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba to Old Trafford.
Additionally, experienced goalkeeper Karl Darlow arrived on a free transfer to provide further competition between the posts.
The club also reduced its squad, with Casemiro leaving after his contract expired following his spell at Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, young striker Chido Obi joined Willem II on a season-long loan after the English transfer window had closed.
United also explored signing another left-back but failed to complete a deal before the deadline.
Their attention could now turn towards defence when the club enters the summer transfer market again in 2027.
Reports suggest United want two new full-backs and two centre-backs as part of the next stage of their rebuild.
Those planned additions could also result in several established defenders leaving Old Trafford following the current campaign.
According to the Manchester Evening News and talkSPORT (via TEAMtalk), Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Matthijs De Ligt and Luke Shaw face uncertain futures.
United signed the four defenders for a combined £210 million, including potential add-ons.
The club reportedly plans to trigger Martinez’s contract option, extending his existing agreement until the summer of 2028.
However, United also want to protect his transfer value if they decide to sell him next summer.
Martinez has struggled with injuries during his United career and must prove his fitness throughout the current season.
Harry Maguire also faces an important campaign, with his existing contract entering its final year at Old Trafford.
United hold an option to extend his deal for another season, although the defender will turn 34 next summer.
De Ligt must also demonstrate his fitness after undergoing surgery on a back problem at the end of last season.
Meanwhile, Luke Shaw has entered the final year of his contract, which does not include an extension option.
United must therefore decide whether to offer Shaw another deal or allow him to leave for free.
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