Manchester United could look to strengthen their attack this summer as the club continues to search for more pace and width in the squad.
Recent performances have shown that United still have problems in the wide areas, and the club may need new players to solve that issue.
Their recent defeat to Newcastle United highlighted this weakness once again. Even though Newcastle were reduced to ten men during the match, United struggled to break them down.
The team found it difficult to stretch the defence, which made attacking play slower and easier to defend against.
Because of this, the club’s recruitment team are now exploring different options ahead of the next transfer window.
United’s attack is lacking natural width
One of the problems for United this season has been the way their attackers play. Players like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha often move into central areas when attacking.
While this can help create chances in the middle of the pitch, it also means the team sometimes loses width on the wings.
Without wide players staying near the touchline, opposition defences can remain compact and difficult to break down.
Another issue is the lack of overlapping full-backs. Modern teams often rely on their defenders to run forward and support attacks, creating space for the forwards.
United have struggled to do this regularly, which has made their attacking play easier to defend.
Because of this tactical problem, signing a natural winger has become an important priority for the club.
Nico Williams is now on the United radar
Reports from Spain suggest that United could now consider making a move for Nico Williams, who currently plays for Athletic Bilbao.
The Spanish international is known for his explosive speed and strong dribbling ability.
He is a player who likes to stay wide and attack defenders directly, which is exactly the type of profile United may need.
At just 23 years old, Williams has already built a strong reputation in La Liga.
His performances for Athletic Bilbao and the Spanish national team have attracted interest from several top clubs around Europe.
United are not alone in watching the winger. Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern Munich have also been linked with the player.
This means that if United want to complete the transfer, they could face strong competition.
Transfer fee and contract situation
Williams still has a contract with Athletic Bilbao that includes a release clause believed to be around €90 million.
However, reports claim the Spanish club might be willing to negotiate a slightly lower fee.
Last summer, Williams made headlines when he rejected a move to FC Barcelona. The Catalan club had a strong interest in the winger but was unable to convince him to leave Bilbao at the time.
Instead, Barcelona ended up signing Marcus Rashford from Manchester United on a loan deal.
Because of that decision, Williams stayed at his boyhood club for another season. However, the current campaign has not been as successful for him as many expected.
Injury concerns could worry United
Although Williams remains a talented player, his recent injury record may cause concern for potential buyers.
The winger has struggled with a long-term groin problem during the 2025/26 season. Injuries have limited his performances and made it harder for him to find consistent form.
So far this season, he has managed ten goal contributions in 26 appearances across competitions.
While those numbers are respectable, they are not quite at the level many expected from such an exciting young player.
Because of this, United may need to think carefully before committing a large transfer fee.
Other options are being considered
Williams is not the only winger being watched by Manchester United.
The club have also been linked with Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig. However, the German club are believed to value the player at around €100 million, which could make negotiations difficult.
Another option is Marcus Tavernier from AFC Bournemouth. Tavernier is a versatile player who can play both as a winger and an attacking midfielder.
With several names on their shortlist, United’s recruitment team will need to decide which option best fits the team’s long-term plans.
Big summer expected at Old Trafford
The next transfer window could be very important for Manchester United. The club are aiming to improve their squad and return to challenging near the top of the table.
Adding more speed, creativity and width to the attack will likely be one of their biggest priorities.
Whether that player ends up being Nico Williams or another target remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear, United know they must strengthen their wide areas if they want to compete with the best teams again.
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