Manchester United concluded their Premier League campaign having recorded their worst season on record, finishing in 15th place with a low tally of just 42 points.
Ruben Amorim, who took charge in November, has yet to significantly turn the team`s performance around, losing 17 of his 42 matches at the helm.
The manager has only overseen one transfer window, during which his main acquisition was Patrick Dorgu from Lecce for £30m.
Looking ahead, the 40-year-old plans to offload several existing players to create financial flexibility and squad space for new signings.
With the summer transfer window nearing, numerous players have been linked with moves to Old Trafford, potentially funded by player departures.
Latest Transfer Rumours for United
Recently, Liam Delap was reportedly United`s primary target for the central forward position, as the club sought to strengthen Amorim`s attacking options.
However, it seems United may miss out on the 22-year-old, who is now understood to favour a move to Chelsea this summer.
Delap is not the only English player on United`s radar. According to American outlet ESPN, Crystal Palace`s Eberechi Eze is also a target.
The report indicates United`s hierarchy is exploring a potential deal for the 26-year-old attacking midfielder, who registered 16 goals and assists combined in the Premier League this season.
ESPN also suggests United might need to sell players to finance the move, given Eze`s contract includes a £68m release clause.
Why the £68m Target Could Replace Bruno Fernandes
Recent days have seen significant speculation about club captain Bruno Fernandes potentially leaving United, with Saudi Arabian clubs reportedly keen on signing him this summer.
The 30-year-old was a standout performer this season, contributing 37 goals and assists across all competitions and playing a key role in reaching the Europa League final.
Despite the final result, the Portuguese international expressed his desire to remain at Old Trafford. However, a rumoured offer of £700k-per-week from Saudi Arabia would present a formidable temptation.
His departure would be a significant loss, as his contributions in the final third have been crucial for the team.
Considering his age, however, selling Fernandes now might represent the last opportunity to command a high transfer fee, which could then be used to fund a move for Eze.
Comparing their statistics from the recent season reveals that Eze, described as “sensational”, matches or outperforms Fernandes in several key metrics, suggesting he has the capability to step into a crucial role if required.
| How Eze compares to Fernandes in the PL (2024/25) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Statistics (per 90) | Eze | Fernandes |
| Games played | 34 | 36 |
| Goals & assists | 16 | 18 |
| Shots on target per 90 | 1 | 0.7 |
| Progressive carries | 2.4 | 2.3 |
| Pass accuracy | 76% | 76% |
| % of tackles won | 47% | 40% |
| Take-on success | 49% | 41% |
| Fouls won | 1.8 | 1.1 |
| Stats via FBref |
Eze also completed the same percentage of passes and was more successful with take-ons, highlighting his effectiveness in creating chances through dribbling.
Furthermore, the England international had a higher tackle success rate, offering Amorim the tactical flexibility to potentially use him in a deeper midfield position next season.
Selling Bruno would undeniably upset many supporters, especially given his impressive performance record for United since his arrival in 2020.
However, Eze could prove to be an excellent signing. His statistics suggest he is capable of reaching or exceeding the level of contribution provided by the 30-year-old, potentially invigorating the team after a disappointing season.
