Ten Hag to AXE 13 at Man Utd, including ‘best young player’

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 17 May 2023 08:50 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United’s first-team squad is set for a dramatic overhaul this summer with manager Erik ten Hag ready to cull as many as 13 players from the Old Trafford club’s ranks.

Ten Hag took charge of United last summer after leaving Ajax and is set to step up his renovation process at Old Trafford.

The Dutchman has big plans in the transfer window but with the club’s takeover leaving him in a state of uncertainty over how much money he will have to spend, he is set to take matters into his own hands by freeing up funds.

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As many as eight players could be sold, the Manchester Evening News reports, while another five will be released at the end of their contracts.

Northern Ireland international Ethan Galbraith, who was once described as the club’s best young player, has already confirmed that he will leave Man Utd at the end of the season.

“After six years, my time has come to an end with this magnificent club, Manchester United. I want to thank the club, coaching staff and players for helping me become a better player, a better person and for making me feel at home,” he wrote on social media.

Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones are the most high-profile players out of contract, with Ondrej Mastny and Charlie Wellens also set to go.

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Who will Man Utd sell this summer?

Unsurprisingly, the defence is the area that Man Utd are examining most closely with regards player sales. Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are both players who could be sold, with Alex Telles and Eric Bailly, who are at Sevilla and Marseille on loan, could also go.

In midfield, Donny van de Beek is tipped to depart along with Brandon Williams.

Up front, Ten Hag has been tipped to sell the unpredictable Anthony Martial and Anthony Elanga.