Manchester United plan to offload Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot in 2027 as part of a squad overhaul that targets defensive reinforcements, TEAMtalk reported.
Manchester United Plans Defensive Overhaul for 2027
- Defensive Rebuild: United’s impending 2027 defensive overhaul shifts attention toward potential signings.
- Wage Bill Management: The club’s strategy dictates that every incoming defensive signing requires an outgoing departure to keep the wage bill under strict control.
Following a 2025 attacking overhaul and a 2026 midfield refresh, Manchester United will focus on the defence in 2027. Signings are possible in the upcoming winter window, though the striker position takes priority in January.
It is unclear whether the defensive reinforcements will arrive early or wait until the summer. A recent Flashscore report revealed that United intend to keep their wage bill under control when altering their squad.
Reporter Dean Jones stated: “United’s senior hierarchy have been assessing the current squad and identifying players who could command a worthwhile fee, particularly those who have struggled to establish themselves or are no longer considered central to the team’s plans.”
He added: “There is an acknowledgement that United cannot simply keep adding to the wage bill and spending heavily without making progress on outgoings.”
Lisandro Martinez is one player cited in that report, having cost United goals on an almost weekly basis this season. Martinez is in the final year of his contract and does not want Manchester United to activate their one-year option.
Unverified reports claim he already has an agreement in principle in place with Atletico Madrid. A fresh update from Football Insider confirmed that Martinez wants to move to Atleti.
Football Insider also revealed that Diogo Dalot could depart next year. The report stated: “Diogo Dalot could leave Man United next year as clubs across Europe keep tabs on his contract situation.”
The report added: “Dalot, 27, has come under fire for his sub-par performances in a United shirt this season.”
Having recently made more than 250 appearances for the club, the Portuguese right-back’s current deal at Old Trafford runs until 2028. After previously prioritizing midfield and attacking reinforcements, Manchester United now intend to strengthen their backline across the upcoming transfer windows.
| Player | Position | Contract Expiry | Reported Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisandro Martinez | Centre-Back | Final Year | Wants Atletico Madrid move |
| Diogo Dalot | Right-Back | 2028 | Out of contract next year, drawing European interest |
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