Manchester United set to return for Premier League star

Manchester United transfer plans point to major defensive overhaul Manchester United are already mapping out significant work for next summer, with the club's defensive rebuild moving rapidly up the agenda after another worrying start to the season. According to INews, senior figures at Old Trafford accept that the back line should have been addressed more decisively in the last window, and that acknowledgement now appears to be shaping recruitment plans for 2027.

The early season picture has left little room for debate. United have looked vulnerable too often, with the lack of clean sheets underlining wider structural issues across the defence.

Recruitment resources were directed elsewhere in the summer, particularly into midfield, and the consequences have quickly become clear. The burden on experienced options has remained high, while the squad's balance has looked imperfect from the opening weeks.

There is a strong sense that this is no minor adjustment. The club's recruitment team are understood to be laying the groundwork for substantial change, particularly at left-back and centre-back, where both availability and long-term suitability are under review.

It is understood that the Argentina international had been weighing up his future even before the recent tension involving Jason Wilcox and members of the hierarchy. Interest from Spain remains active, with Atletico Madrid previously linked and other La Liga clubs also attentive to his situation.

Martinez's contract position gives United some control, because the club can activate an additional year and seek a fee. Even so, the suggestion within the piece is that United may ultimately choose to move on if the player is minded to leave, especially if removing his salary from the wage bill helps create room for reinvestment.

United are expected to trigger the option in his contract, and there is clear appreciation internally for his leadership role. He may no longer be viewed as the long-term cornerstone of the defence, but he remains trusted within the dressing room and valued for the support he provides younger players such as Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro.

Luke Shaw's position is more finely balanced. His current deal is also nearing its end, and any extension would seemingly depend on a reduced package from his present £200,000-a-week terms.

United are expected to monitor how he comes through the demands of a packed schedule before making a final judgement. That feels sensible, especially given the repeated availability concerns that have affected planning for several seasons.