Manchester United are prepared to let three high-value players leave on free transfers in 2026 as Ruben Amorim reshapes his squad. The Red Devils want to clear wages and open space for a blockbuster midfield addition in the next transfer window.
Ruben Amorim Reshaping Manchester United Squad
Ruben Amorim took charge of Manchester United in 2024, inheriting a bloated roster packed with underperforming stars. His first year at Old Trafford has been tough, with just nine wins from 32 Premier League fixtures.
Last summer, Amorim oversaw a major clear-out, with Alejandro Garnacho and Antony sold, while Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford, André Onana, and Jadon Sancho left on loan. Despite those moves, United still need further changes to fully adapt to Amorim’s strict 3-4-2-1 system.
Manchester United Prioritizing Midfield Reinforcement
The Red Devils spent over £200m on attacking signings in the last transfer window, bringing in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Šeško. However, their midfield remains underpowered, prompting fans and pundits to demand reinforcements.
Brighton’s Carlos Baleba has been strongly linked with United. Valued at £115m, the Cameroon international could be the marquee signing of 2026, but only if United free up funds by cutting ties with expensive flops.
Casemiro Set to Leave Manchester United
Casemiro headlines the list of departures. Signed from Real Madrid for £70m in 2022, the Brazilian midfielder enjoyed a brilliant debut season but has struggled for consistency since.
Now 33, Casemiro remains one of the club’s top earners, and despite United holding an option to extend his deal, reports suggest he will walk away as a free agent next summer. His recent red card against Chelsea underlined the limitations in his game.
Jadon Sancho’s United Career All But Over
Jadon Sancho, a £73m signing in 2021, has failed to make an impact at Old Trafford. He has not featured in a Premier League match for more than two years, spending most of that time on loan.
Currently at Aston Villa, Sancho is attempting to revive his career, but his United future looks over. With his contract expiring in July 2026, the club are not expected to trigger the 12-month extension clause.
Tyrell Malacia Also Expected to Exit
Tyrell Malacia, Erik ten Hag’s first signing at £13m, has endured a nightmare spell at United due to injuries. The left-back was close to securing a move to Turkey during the last transfer window, but the deal collapsed.
He is now almost certain to leave Old Trafford as a free agent next year, joining Casemiro and Sancho on the list of high-profile exits.
Harry Maguire Likely to Stay at Old Trafford
One player who could buck the trend is Harry Maguire. The England defender, once the world’s most expensive defender after his £80m transfer from Leicester in 2019, has regained the backing of Amorim.
United activated a contract extension earlier this year and are now negotiating fresh terms to keep Maguire at Old Trafford, though on reduced wages.
Conclusion: A New Era at Manchester United
Manchester United’s decision to release Casemiro, Sancho, and Malacia signals a major squad overhaul as Ruben Amorim looks to rebuild around younger, more dynamic players. With the midfield the top priority, the Red Devils could make a statement signing next summer — and the exits of these costly flops may be the key to funding it.
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