Erik ten Hag was told by Solskjaer that Manchester United might have a new Matthijs de Ligt

With the transfer window officially opening on Friday, it is understandable that Manchester United supporters have such a gluttonous appetite for rumours and updates on the long list of players linked with the club.

The end of a season brings with it a fresh start and a reason to dream about the possibilities that may lie ahead. So, there is an excuse to fantasise about the potential new arrivals at Old Trafford and the success they might bring to the club.

Throw into the mix the appointment of a popular new manager in the shape of Erik ten Hag and it's clear exactly why fans are so eager for any information, no matter how vague, to further fuel their fires.

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However, one of the reasons United appointed Ten Hag was his ability to develop players already at his disposal rather than simply buy them, and he will need a combination of both if he is to experience a successful debut season at Old Trafford.

United's priority is to sign at least one new midfielder and one attacker this summer, though there is a desire to get two players in each position as a matter of urgency. It means that, despite wanting a new centre-back and a full-back, at least one of these areas might need to be put on the backburner this summer, with a greater need to strengthen elsewhere taking precedent.

One such position is centre-back. United are keen on adding a new defender this summer and have identified Jurrien Timber as their top target, but with so many defenders on their books already, it is a harder deal to justify.

Eric Bailly, Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe could all leave United in the summer, which would certainly increase the need for a