Manchester United is reportedly keeping tabs on Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich, Lille’s Jonathan David, and Nice’s Khephren Thuram as potential targets for the upcoming summer transfer window. The anticipated confirmation of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival as a minority shareholder of the club, expected by the middle of the month, has prompted the club to begin planning for the market.
According to ESPN, Manchester United is strategizing to focus on players entering the final year of their contracts, with Kimmich, David, and Thuram among those being closely monitored. Kimmich’s contract with Bayern is set to expire in the summer of 2025, and speculation surrounding his future has been rife. Although he remains an integral part of Thomas Tuchel’s team, reports suggest that he could be available for the right price this summer, with Liverpool and Manchester City also rumored to be interested.
Jonathan David’s future has also become a topic of speculation, as the Canadian international has less than 18 months remaining on his contract with Lille. The 24-year-old forward, who has also been linked with Chelsea, has showcased his prowess with 13 goals and six assists in 28 club appearances during the 2023-24 season.
Manchester United is reportedly in the market for a new forward this summer to complement Rasmus Hojlund, especially with Anthony Martial set to depart on a free transfer. It is believed that Lille may be open to selling David, considering his contract situation.
Additionally, Khephren Thuram is another player purportedly on Manchester United’s radar. With Nice expected to face challenges in retaining him beyond the upcoming summer transfer window, Thuram could potentially be available for acquisition.
Last summer, Liverpool showed strong interest in the France international, but Nice managed to fend off the advances and retain him for at least another season. Despite being plagued by injury setbacks this season, the 22-year-old has made 15 appearances for Nice, accumulating a total of 153 appearances for the club across all competitions, with eight goals and 11 assists to his name.
Manchester United is reportedly confident that targeting players in the final year of their contracts will allow them to manage their spending effectively in the upcoming summer transfer window, particularly if they fail to secure Champions League qualification for the 2024-25 season. Presently, Erik ten Hag’s side occupies the sixth position in the Premier League standings, trailing fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur by six points and fourth-placed Aston Villa by eight points.
The Red Devils aim to close the gap on the top four as they travel to face Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon, with the club aiming for a fourth consecutive victory in all competitions.