Manchester United could strengthen Erik ten Hag's attacking options for free next summer

Phase one of Manchester United's squad rebuild under Erik ten Hag saw them bring in six new players during the summer transfer window, strengthening a variety of positions.

From the arrival of goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to the £85million capture of winger Antony from Ajax, United strengthened several areas of their squad. However, the club has only completed the first phase of its rebuild under Ten Hag, meaning more activity could come as soon as January.

As Ten Hag revealed following the 2-0 win over Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League last month, United planned to use some time over the recent international break to put plans in place for the forthcoming January window. There is nothing to suggest that they will splash the cash in such vast amounts as they did in the summer, but there is nothing to suggest that they won't get their chequebook out for at least one new addition.

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It is understood that United are eyeing up a right-back, a central midfielder and a striker as the next part of their squad rebuild. Choosing to strengthen all three of those areas, whether it be in January or next summer, would certainly earn a round of applause from the fans.

The right-back spot, despite Diogo Dalot's solid start to the campaign, remains a long-term weak link in the squad and United, regardless of what the coming months bring in relation to Cristiano Ronaldo's future, need to recruit a new centre-forward that can become the face of their forward line for years to come. Signing a big-name striker, however, is an easier-said-than-done task.

But considering Ronaldo is not currently getting much of a look-in under Ten Hag, when the time comes for him to depart,