Man Utd: Ten Hag wants to strengthen 'two priority positions' at Old Trafford

Manchester United could still sign a new central midfielder and forward before the transfer window closes, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth. 

Erik ten Hag is putting his mark on the club after a disappointing 2021-22 campaign but two key positions are still to be filled in his squad. 

It was clear that United’s squad was in dire need of a refresh as last season came to a close and Ten Hag has set about that in an impressive manner so far. 

Big names have been swapped for players the manager knows well in the form of Christian Eriksen, Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia. While it is easy to see what each will offer the side, two key positions are yet to be strengthened. 

Frenkie De Jong has been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer with the Red Devils reportedly agreeing a £63 million fee with Barcelona. 

However, problems persist in the bid with De Jong holding out for Barcelona to repay the millions he is owed in deferred wages after taking a pay cut in the pandemic and is currently adamant he will remain at the Camp Nou.

With Cristiano Ronaldo currently demanding an exit, there will likely be a desire for a new attacking presence too with Jadon Sancho, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford making up the front three in their most recent friendly – a trio who were all heavily criticised last term. 

Sheth told GIVEMESPORT: “Two of the priority positions that we were told from the outset was central midfield and along the forward line, and those two positions I guess, you could say are still to be filled.”

As mentioned before, De Jong appears to be the top pick for that midfield vacancy following the departure of Paul Pogba at the end of his contract. 

Ten Hag knows him well from their