Man Utd can still sign five players today despite transfer window closing – Daily Express

Manchester United’s transfer business is not yet finished. While the Premier League’s 11pm deadline has passed on paper, clubs can still submit deals to the Premier League’s central registration system as long as paperwork is completed before midnight. United’s recruitment team remains active in the final hours, with multiple targets under consideration as the club attempts to address squad deficiencies before the window closes.

Why United’s late push matters now

United’s attempts to reshape the squad have been erratic this summer, with several high-profile targets slipping away. The club’s interest in Rayan Ait-Nouri, a Manchester City left-back, emerged only hours before the window closed, catching many by surprise. City had initially proposed a loan with an obligation to buy, but United had shown no prior interest in a permanent move for the defender. The sudden shift reflects the compressed nature of deadline day, where clubs are forced to make rapid decisions under extreme pressure.

Elsewhere, reports suggest United remain in the hunt for multiple players, though the identities of those targets have not been confirmed. The club’s willingness to push until the last possible moment reflects a broader trend across the Premier League, where clubs have spent a record £3.2 billion this summer. United’s own spending has been modest by comparison, and the late flurry is an attempt to address gaps before the squad is finalised.

What comes next for United’s transfer strategy

The club’s approach has been reactive rather than proactive. Bruno Fernandes’ recent hat-trick against Brighton masked deeper issues within the team, particularly in defence and midfield. With the window still technically open for a few more hours, United’s focus will be on securing deals that address those weaknesses. The Ait-Nouri pursuit, however uncharacteristic, signals a willingness to take risks in the final moments.

United’s rivals have been far more decisive. Manchester City completed a £125 million deal for Enzo Fernández, while Chelsea’s £47 million bid for Lamine Camara collapsed at the last minute due to Monaco’s last-gasp withdrawal. These contrasting fortunes highlight United’s struggle to compete with the league’s biggest spenders. Ten Hag’s ability to navigate the final hours will determine whether the club can salvage a productive window.

Tactical implications of the late signings

If United do finalise any of the targets under consideration, the tactical impact will depend on the profiles of the incoming players. A left-back like Ait-Nouri could provide cover for Luke Shaw or Tyrell Malacia, while other targets may offer depth in midfield or attack. The club’s recent form—including Fernandes’ brace—suggests attacking talent is not the primary concern, but defensive frailties remain a pressing issue.

United’s inability to secure a marquee signing this summer contrasts with clubs like Arsenal, who have strengthened significantly. The late push may yield short-term fixes, but the bigger question is whether Ten Hag can build a squad capable of challenging for trophies. The final hours of the window will reveal whether United’s recruitment team can deliver.

As the clock ticks down, United’s transfer activity is a microcosm of their summer: late, uncertain, and under pressure. The club’s ability to finalise deals in the next few hours will shape their season before a ball is kicked. For a club that has spent big in previous windows, this year’s caution may prove costly.