Bournemouth star signed, £52m coup: The ‘dream’ Manchester United line up we predicted last summer – gallery
We predicted Man Utd’s dream summer window a year ago and here is what it would have looked like.
Manchester United supporters are dreaming of reinforcement in the summer transfer window, but it is important to note that things don’t always go according to plan. Matheus Cunha looks like a smart addition from Wolves and talks are still underway to add Brentford ace Bryan Mbeumo.
Ruben Amorim would also like to add a proven goalscorer to his squad this summer, with Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen and Hugo Ekitike some of the names linked with an Old Trafford move. The United head coach would also like to add a central midfielder, a wing-back and a goalkeeper if possible, though it seems unlikely they will manage to address all those issues.
With that in mind, we thought it would be fun to look back a year and see what happened to the ‘dream’ United starting line up we predicted a year ago and how different things ended up in reality. It actually ended up a lot closer than you would have expected. Also, please note, Erik ten Hag was still the manager, so it’s 4-3-3 rather than 3-4-2-1.
1. We predicted Manchester United could add four players to their strongest XI last summer
We predicted Manchester United could add four players to their strongest XI last summer | line-up builder Photo: line-up builder
2. GK – Andre Onana
We backed Onana to keep his starting role in goal and that turned out to be the case
3. RB – Diogo Dalot
Dalot got our pick at right back but we highlighted the need for a long-term improvement
4. CB – Leny Yoro
We labelled Yoro the ‘dream’ addition at centre-back. It was a dream that soon came true.
Traore given transfer green signal as West Ham approach to sign him
West Ham are reportedly keen on securing the services of Bournemouth attacker Hamed Traore in the summer transfer window.
The Hammers want attacking reinforcements and the Ivory Coast international has emerged on their radar.
Dr Rajpal Brar, an injury expert, has assessed the 25-year-old’s fitness record ahead of a potential transfer in the coming weeks.
Traore expected to clear medical despite recent hamstring injury
The Ivorian’s recent hamstring injury should not cause any issues with him clearing a medical, according to Dr Brar.
West Ham have made an approach to sign Traore, but the Cherries are expected to demand £17million. (Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, 21 May)
The Bournemouth attacker was on the Hammers’ radar in 2022 as well, back when he was at Sassuolo.
Last season, Traore was out on loan at Auxerre, where he enjoyed a good season.
Speaking exclusively with West Ham Zone, Dr Brar, a specialist in Physical Therapy and a Sports Scientist, said: “West Ham may take a closer look at his most recent hamstring injury and potentially any long-standing effects from his multiple illnesses over the past few seasons.
He played 26 games last season in the league, so he does not seem to be at any risk of failing a medical.
“Prior Premier League experience will come in handy and make the adaptation easier.”
West Ham must bring Traore to the London Stadium this summer
Traore would be an excellent signing for West Ham due to his versatility and proven Ligue 1 form.
His ability to play on the wings as well as multiple midfield roles addresses the Hammers’ need for depth, especially with Lucas Paqueta’s uncertain future.
Traore’s pace, vision and box-crashing style suit Graham Potter’s system, which thrives on players rotating positions.
At £17million, he’s a cost-effective addition with resale value, bringing Premier League experience from Bournemouth and Serie A pedigree.
It remains to be seen how high he is on the club’s priority list, but this is a deal they should look to explore.
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