Man Utd have summer transfer ‘acceptance’ as Erik ten Hag shortlists 15 targets

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is keen to recruit an elite-level midfielder and striker to his squad this summer, according to reports. And the Dutchman is said to have shortlisted at least 15 names as United accept that he will want more than two or three additions in key areas.

Ten Hag’s desire to sign a new goalscorer is no secret, with United scoring just 51 goals in 35 Premier League games this season.

According to ESPN, Harry Kane is a target, but the Red Devils won’t be drawn into drawn-out negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy.

Ten Hag wants new additions integrated into his squad before flying out for the pre-season tour of the United States on July 20.

Alternatives identified include Napoli’s Victor Osimhen – who could prove to be just as challenging to capture – Eintracht Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani, Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic, AS Roma’s Tammy Abraham and Ajax’s Brian Brobbey.

Further midfield reinforcements are also on the agenda after Casemiro and Christian Eriksen’s arrivals last summer.

Ten Hag has retained an interest in Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, while England internationals Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham are also high on his list.

However, West Ham United and Borussia Dortmund are expected to demand at least £100million for Rice and Bellingham, which could prompt the M16 giants to look elsewhere.

Chelsea duo Mateo Kovacic and Mason Mount are admired at Old Trafford, as are Leicester City playmaker James Maddison and wantaway Brighton and Hove Albion star Alexis Mac Allister.

United could also revisit Adrien Rabiot as he nears his July 1 contract expiry at Juventus. The Frenchman was in talks over a switch last summer, but his mother’s demands broke down a move.