Will Manchester United's summer transfer window dealings shorten their title odds?

With several high-profile signings already secured and more rumoured to be on the way, Man Utd fans are cautiously optimistic about their prospects for the upcoming campaign. It can't get any worse than last year's league performance...can it?

A season to forget

Despite a shock FA Cup final victory over local rivals Manchester City, the 2023/24 campaign was one to forget for most United fans.

Finishing eighth, a full eight points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa, United missed out on Champions League football and only squeaked into a European competition through their FA cup triumph.

This poor showing has placed enormous pressure on manager Erik ten Hag to deliver results in his third season at Old Trafford.

The Dutchman has made it clear that his sights remain set on winning the Premier League title, but bookmakers currently price United as 25/1 outsiders, giving them just a 3.85% implied probability of lifting the trophy.

You don't need to be a gambling genius to know this makes them a big long shot.

 

Summer transfer activity

But it's not all doom and gloom, Manchester United have already been active in the transfer market this summer.

Their first major signing was Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £35.8 million. The 23-year-old forward impressed in Serie A last season, netting 11 goals and providing 5 assists in 34 appearances.

Next up, United secured the services of 18-year-old French centre-back Leny Yoro from Lille for a whopping £58.9 million fee. The highly-rated defender chose Old Trafford over Real Madrid, showing that the United brand still has some clout against other European big guns.

Though a foot injury, that could keep Yoro out for three months, hasn't been the greatest start to life at Old Trafford.

On the way out, high-profile departures have included Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial leaving as free agents. The club also managed to recoup £9.7million for young defender Willy Kambwala.

 

Man Utd rumoured targets

The club has been strongly linked with several high-profile targets including defenders Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich, Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton and Ivan Toney from Brentford.

Reports have also suggested that United have agreed personal terms with the PSG and Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte, who could provide much-needed steel in the centre of the park.

 

Addressing key issues

United's transfer strategy is aimed at addressing several key weaknesses from last season, which appears to be mainly focused on the spine of the team.

The addition of Yoro and pursuit of another centre-back suggests Ten Hag is prioritising shoring up a backline that conceded an average of 17.55 shots per game last season.

The potential arrival of Ugarte could provide the defensive presence in midfield that United lacked, allowing creative players like Bruno Fernandes more freedom.

Zirkzee's signing and interest in Toney indicate a desire to boost United's attacking options and reduce reliance on young striker Rasmus Hojlund, another player who will miss the start of the season due to injury.

 

Will the transfers be enough?

While United's transfer activity shows ambition, the question remains - Will it be enough to transform them into genuine title contenders?

The addition of Zirkzee provides competition for Hojlund and could help solve United's goal scoring woes. Last season, only Hojlund and Fernandes reached double figures in Premier League goals (10 each). If Zirkzee can replicate or improve upon his Serie A form, United's attack will become significantly more potent.

Defensively, Yoro's arrival adds youth and potential to the backline. If United can secure another experienced centre-back like De Ligt, it could provide the stability needed to compete at the highest level.

The potential signing of Ugarte could be crucial. United's midfield lacked bite and energy last season, and the Uruguayan's tenacious style could be the missing piece of the puzzle. His defensive prowess would allow creative players like Fernandes and England starlet Kobbie Mainoo more freedom to influence games.

However, United face stiff competition. Manchester City remain the team to beat, while Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea are all strengthening their squads. Even with their summer additions, United will need to show significant improvement to bridge the gap to the top four, let alone challenge for the title.

 

What about Man Utd's title odds?

Depending on who you bet with, Manchester United's odds to win the 2024/25 season Premier League has them behind Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and even Tottenham at around +2200.

Stake.com offers competitive odds on Manchester United’s performance this season. The odds reflect the team's potential resurgence under the guidance of Erik ten Hag and the strategic additions to their squad.

Stake.com is highly regarded for its extensive betting options. To learn more about the betting options and promotions available you can read a recent CCN review. This review provides detailed insights into the platform’s features and the benefits for bettors looking to place their wagers on the Premier League.

By exploring different bookmakers, fans and bettors can make more informed decisions about their wagers on Manchester United’s performance in the upcoming EPL season.

 

Conclusion

Manchester United's summer transfer window shows clear intent to address the weaknesses that plagued them last season.

The additions of Zirkzee and Yoro, along with potential arrivals like Ugarte and another centre-back, should undoubtedly strengthen the squad.