Manchester United's summer transfer activity is intensifying as Michael Carrick implements his own methods at Old Trafford. The club is close to completing its first signing under the new manager, while another new addition is turning heads behind the scenes.
Waldemar Anton Targeted as Maguire Successor
Harry Maguire, 33, signed a new one-year contract in April with an option for an additional 12 months, having revitalised his career under Carrick. However, United are already planning for the future by targeting Borussia Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton as an eventual replacement.
The 29-year-old German international has been on United's radar since March. German publication Bild reports that speculation is intensifying ahead of a potential bid from the Premier League club. Anton is also attracting interest from Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid.
United's defence suffered from numerous absences this season, with Matthijs de Ligt missing a significant portion through injury, while Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw have faced persistent fitness issues. Anton's arrival would provide much-needed depth and quality.
At Dortmund, Anton is being lined up to replace Julian Brandt as the club's 'third captain'. Coach Niko Kovac may face pressure to retain his star centre-back if United make a concrete offer.
Youth Scout Harvey Busby Joins from Newcastle
Off the pitch, United have recruited Harvey Busby from Newcastle United as their new lead national scout for under-14 to under-18 age groups. The 23-year-old played a key role in youth recruitment for the Magpies, helping them secure promising talents ahead of rivals.
United had previously attempted to hire Newcastle's head of youth recruitment, Paul Midgley, in December but failed. Busby's appointment is viewed as the next best option. He replaces Connor Hunter, who has been promoted to head of academy recruitment.
These moves come after criticism from club part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who urged the academy to produce more first-team-ready talents. However, some fans may be cautious given United's previous expensive hire from Newcastle, Dan Ashworth, who lasted only five months as sporting director before being sacked, costing the club over £4 million.
