Manchester United exit confirmed as Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s second summer transfer completed

Manchester United have officially confirmed their second summer transfer of the 2025 window under the leadership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS. The move marks yet another step in a sweeping overhaul that is expected to redefine the squad ahead of the new season. While the club has not yet revealed the name of the outgoing player, insiders suggest that several fringe stars are now heading toward the exit door as part of the club’s rebuild strategy.

This latest development comes as part of a larger transition project spearheaded by Ratcliffe and new manager Ruben Amorim, who is expected to implement a dynamic 3-4-3 system. The club is actively trimming its roster to create space for new additions and to better align with Amorim’s tactical philosophy.

Among those linked with an exit are Altay Bayindir, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and even Marcus Rashford. All four players are reportedly available for transfer, and United are believed to be listening to offers with the hope of not just offloading underperformers, but also raising significant transfer funds.

United’s motivation for a squad revamp has been driven by a poor domestic campaign that saw them finish dangerously close to the bottom half of the Premier League table. At one point in the season, there were fears the Red Devils could drop as low as 17th—an unthinkable position for a club of their stature.

However, the mood around the club is still cautiously optimistic. Manchester United are preparing to face Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final—an opportunity not only to salvage some silverware from the season but to secure a coveted Champions League spot.

Victory in the final would also provide a financial injection, both from the competition prize and associated broadcasting revenue, further bolstering the club’s summer transfer war chest. Sources close to the club indicate that United already have over £100 million allocated for new signings, a figure that could swell to around £200 million depending on player sales.

Still, some experts warn that these projections may be too ambitious. For example, Sancho’s loan deal to Chelsea reportedly includes an option for the Blues to cut the agreement short for a fee of just £5 million. Chelsea are currently not willing to commit to the £25 million needed to make the deal permanent. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford’s reported interest from Aston Villa remains speculative, with no formal offer submitted.

United have already set their sights on several key targets to strengthen the squad. Top of the list is Wolves striker Matheus Cunha. Known for his aggressive style and flair, Cunha is viewed as a potential game-changer up front. Amorim is reportedly confident in his ability to manage the Brazilian’s temperament and unlock his full potential.

Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap has also emerged as a target, especially after the club’s relegation. United believe they can secure Delap’s services for around £30 million—a price they deem reasonable given the forward’s age, potential, and goal-scoring instincts.

In addition to attacking reinforcements, United are actively scouting options to upgrade their wing-back roles. The current squad lacks depth and consistency in those positions, and Amorim’s 3-4-3 system requires energetic, two-way players to thrive on the flanks. Several names have been shortlisted, but no advanced negotiations have been reported yet.

The goalkeeper position is another area being scrutinized. Andre Onana remains the undisputed No.1, but the club wants strong competition to keep him at his best. This has cast serious doubt over the future of backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who is now widely expected to leave in search of regular playing time.

Behind the scenes, technical director Jason Wilcox is said to be playing a major role in identifying targets and executing deals. His performance so far has earned him the trust of INEOS leadership, and as a result, the club currently has no plans to bring in a separate director of football.

To further raise funds, the club is even contemplating the sale of academy talents. While this strategy is risky, United believe that selling one of either Kobbie Mainoo or Alejandro Garnacho could generate a significant windfall. That said, sources inside Old Trafford indicate that the club will only part ways with one of them—and only for a substantial fee. Between the two, Garnacho is viewed as the more likely departure due to interest from top European clubs.

All eyes are now on how United’s Europa League final will impact their summer plans. A win could dramatically alter the narrative surrounding the club, giving Ratcliffe and Amorim the financial and emotional platform they need to kickstart a new era at Old Trafford.

Until then, fans are bracing for more exits in the coming weeks, with reports suggesting that several more transfer announcements could follow soon. For now, the second summer departure under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s regime signals that change at Manchester United is not just a rumor—it’s already well underway.

The next few weeks promise to be crucial for United as they seek to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for major honors again. The second departure may just be the beginning of one of the most transformative summers in the club’s modern history.