Man Utd's 'two signings' to arrive in summer as Rashford sparks 'unrest' at Villa

Manchester United plan to strengthen in two key areas this summer, with a new striker and an attacking midfielder among their top priorities.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also revealed the crucial trait all of Ruben Amorim’s future signings must possess.

United were relatively quiet in the January transfer window, making only one first-team signing in Patrick Dorgu. Meanwhile, Diego Leon and Ayden Heaven arrived as youth prospects, reinforcing the club’s long-term strategy.

However, despite a disappointing campaign, there remains belief at Old Trafford that United can return to title contention under Amorim—if backed properly in the transfer market.

Defender Diogo Dalot recently stated that winning the Premier League again is a realistic goal, provided Amorim is given time and not undermined by the club.

Before that becomes a possibility, however, United must first overhaul an underperforming and overpaid squad.

According to Romano, United are set to sign a new No. 9 and an attacking midfielder to support Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation.

Writing for GiveMeSport, Romano explained:"For sure, the intention is to bring in at least one player able to play behind the strikers and one centre-forward, a proper number nine who can score goals regularly.

"But while it’s still too early to make decisions, for sure the plan is clear and after January, Man United can fully focus on the summer window."

Beyond positional needs, Amorim has made it clear to the United hierarchy that any new arrivals must bring intensity to the team.

Romano emphasized: "The clear intention is to invest in young players with salaries in line with the new plan wanted by INEOS, trusting Ruben Amorim’s idea as he keeps telling the club how crucial it is to bring in players who can give intensity to this squad. This is the key word that will dominate the summer window for Man United."

However, United have not yet locked in specific targets, largely because their European qualification remains uncertain. While United’s global appeal remains strong, missing out on the Champions League could complicate their pursuit of elite-level talent.

"Nothing has been decided yet in terms of names, it’s too early," Romano added."It’s also important to understand which competition Manchester United will play in (in terms of European football) and also to understand the budget. For sure, internally, the plan is to bring in a new striker in the summer."

Currently sitting 13th in the Premier League, United’s chances of securing a Champions League spot via the league look slim.

However, winning the Europa League remains a potential route to UCL qualification, making their European campaign even more critical.

Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford’s loan move to Aston Villa has reportedly caused dressing room unrest. Journalist Henry Winter outlined a three-step plan for Unai Emery to reignite Rashford’s career, but not everyone at Villa Park is pleased with his arrival.

According to The Daily Mail, Rashford’s inclusion in Villa’s updated Champions League squad has angered some of his new teammates—particularly Donyell Malen.

With clubs only allowed to register three winter signings, Emery selected Rashford, Axel Disasi, and Marco Asensio, leaving Malen and Andres Garcia out. Malen, who joined Villa for £21m, had expected to feature prominently in the UCL squad, but Rashford’s late arrival pushed him out of contention.

The report claims Malen is ‘furious’ at being snubbed, with suggestions that had Rashford not arrived at the last minute, Malen would have taken the final squad spot.

With United planning major summer changes and Rashford’s Villa future uncertain, the coming months could shape the club’s long-term direction under Amorim.