Manchester United appear to be massively improved under boss Jose Mourinho. When Van Gaal was sacked as United boss in 2015, the Red Devils were struggling for goals, consistency, and points. The responsibility to take the team back to the helm was given to the Portuguese boss next season by Ed Woodward. Jose did not disappoint the fans and won the Europa League, League Cup and the Community Shield in his first year in charge.
However, 2017-18 could be relatively dull for Red Devils as they are 13 points behind City in the League and are out of the League Cup. However, they sit second in the PL table and having secured Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal, they could be serious contenders for the Champions League and the FA Cup.
Ahead of the 2018-19 season, Manchester United would be splashing some serious cash in the summer as they look to add more silverware to their already glittering trophy cabinet. Here are the players they could pursue in the summer.
#1 Paulo Dybala
Already being labelled as "Junior-Messi", the Argentine is one of the most talented youngsters in Europe. Manchester United would be out in the summer looking for a star No. 10 and Dybala could fit the criteria.
His versatility could impress Jose as he can cut inside from the right wing, play as an attacking midfielder, or as a centre-forward. Any move for Dybala would not come cheap and United may well have to shell out more than £140 million for the left-footed sensation.
#2 Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann looked set to join the Red Devils in the summer when United were prepared to trigger his release clause of €100 million. They move fell through because of Atletico's transfer ban. Griezmann penned down a new deal with Atletico, as a result.
However, his release clause still stands at €100 million, which could be inviting and cheap for such a quality player in the current market scenario. Jose would be looking to bolster his attacking options ahead of a crucial season where United will be challenging for every trophy.
#3 Fabinho
Manchester United had shortlisted Fabinho as a priority midfield target ahead of the 2017-18 season. However, with roping in of Matic from Chelsea, United looked contended with their options.
Midway through 2017-18, Jose Mourinho has recognised the holding midfield as their area of concern with Michael Carrick set to retire at the end of the season and Marouane Fellaini yet to sign a new contract. Fabinho is also capable of playing as a right-back which would certainly make him a quality addition for Jose's team as Antonio Valencia would be 33-year-old by the time it's August.
#4 Danny Rose
The Spurs left-back came out publicly to speak about his interest of 'playing up North'. Rose is a quality left-back who is capable of putting some dangerous crosses in the box, something which Jose's side have been missing this season.
The left-back has fallen down the pecking order at Tottenham behind Ben Davies and would be open to moving. With Ashley Young ageing and Luke Shaw being injury prone, an addition in Danny Rose would be pleasing enough for Jose.
#5 Arturo Vidal
Arturo Vidal could be a target for the Europa League holders ahead of the 2018-19 season. Vidal has been an important player for Bayern but his future seems too uncertain with the club. Bayern have already reached an agreement iwth Leon Goretzka for a free transfer in the summer. The German's arrival could see Vidal losing his place in Jupp Heynckes's side. United could be in for the 30-year-old as he could be reunited with his former team-mate Paul Pogba and Chilean Alexis Sanchez at Old Trafford.