Manchester United are running out of excuses for their quiet start to the summer transfer window.
At the end of the 2025/26 season, there were already whispers that Manchester United were going to have a “big” summer transfer window.
Club captains Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire both applied pressure to the hierarchy to significantly strengthen the squad after securing a return to the Champions League.
Transfer expert David Ornstein predicted United to be busy too, but it hasn’t been the case so far with just one £38m deal for Ederson completed so far.
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World Cup is no excuse for Ineos to be quiet
The 2026 World Cup is well underway this summer with 11 United players still in the competition as it heads into the knockout rounds.
While players being away will disrupt pre-season plans, it has not been an obstacle so far in the transfer window.
United target Elliot Anderson is completing a move to Manchester City for a record £130 million and United-linked Yan Diomande is in talks with PSG.
Both targets have been key for England and Ivory Coast respectively in the World Cup, yet they have still found time to complete transfers while the tournament is on.
Ineos have no excuse. Players can be signed throughout the World Cup, and other clubs are proving it. United need reinforcements, and quickly.
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Man United’s top targets are not even at the World Cup
Ironically, some of United’s top targets are not even competing at the World Cup this summer.
Mateus Fernandes was not included in the Portugal squad, so the West Ham star should have a clear schedule.
United are battling Tottenham for Fernandes, who has an £85 million asking price this summer.
READ MORE: Man Utd are about to take decisive steps to sign Mateus Fernandes, Spurs never stood a chance
Additionally, Sandro Tonali is not at the World Cup, nor is midfield target Carlos Baleba.
United fans will want to see some transfer action sooner rather than later, with pre-season training starting on 9 July.
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