Ten Hag gives clues to Man Utd's summer plans with Shaw's new deal

Tom Weber

• Updated: 31 Mar 2023 15:37 BST
• 3 min read

Luke Shaw's new and improved deal at Manchester United gives us a clearer idea about Erik ten Hag's potential summer plans.

The 27-year-old left-back has been rewarded for his reliable form this season with a better, long-term contract that will tie him down for the next four years. Additionally, it means that the left-back spot is his to lose going forward, and United likely won't look to add in this position further, with Tyrell Malacia - and potential returnee Alex Telles - already waiting in the wings.

Shaw's new contract is a slap in the face of footballer-turned-pundit Carlton Palmer, who recently ranted on TalkSport that Ten Hag must axe the former Southampton man for his perceived defensive frailties.

READ: ‘Ten Hag has no alternatives’ – Man Utd to dump ‘poor, poor’ starter

"I think he’s a poor, poor defender," Palmer said. "I think he’s had a decent season at United, but I think he’s a poor defender...I think next season when they will be genuinely going to have a tilt at the title, I think they will have brought in another left-back."

Furthermore, the new contract gives us an idea as to what United's other business might look like in a few months.

More contracts and big signings?

Clearly, contract negotiations still occupy the top of the agenda for now. Indeed, United are reportedly trying to tie down Shaw's right-sided counterpart Diogo Dalot, goalkeeper David de Gea and 27-goal man Marcus Rashford. Negotiations with out-of-contract De Gea and Dalot, whose deal runs until 2024, are believed to be in advanced stages already.

Talks with Rashford, on the other hand, have only just started, but the Red Devils are desperate to tie their star man down to a longer contract. His current deal is up next year.

READ: Man Utd and Chelsea battle over €40m summer signing

In terms of transfers, United are still looking to add depth in the goalkeeping department with Andre Onana understood to be among the favourites, while a proper striker to replace on-loan Wout Weghorst also has top priority. Victor Osimhen, Harry Kane and Randal Kolo Muani are all names that have been repeatedly linked with United, but all would likely cost in excess of €100 million.