Man Utd hatch Xavi Simons plan as Ruben Amorim aims for right 'profiles' for his system with new list of targets

According to the Daily Mail,Simons has emerged as one of United's prime targets ahead of the upcoming transfer window, though his signing may depend heavily on the club securing a lucrative Champions League spot. Moreover, acquiring the Netherlands international would come at a steep price, particularly given the growing competition from European heavyweights such as Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Liverpool.

After joining Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain permanently in January for a fee believed to be around £48 million ($64m) plus performance-related bonuses, Simons could be on the move again this summer. Despite his relatively short stay in Germany, Leipzig are reportedly open to selling him if they receive an offer that delivers a swift profit. United have kept open lines of communication regarding Simons, but the club are also weighing several other options.

Among the names on United’s shortlist, Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap stands out. The young forward, who has caught attention for his performances in the Premier League, is valued at £30 million ($40m). He is seen as a cost-effective option, but alternatives such as Matheus Cunha from Wolves, Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo are also under consideration. However, each of those players is expected to command a transfer fee north of £60 million ($80m) - figures that may prove unrealistic unless United bolster their budget with Champions League funds.

Winning this season’s Europa League has taken on massive significance for United, as lifting the trophy would secure automatic qualification for the 2025-26 Champions League. Such a result could inject around £100 million ($133m) into the club’s coffers, enabling them to go toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite in the transfer market. Aside from prize money, United are also looking to generate revenue through player departures, with Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Jadon Sancho all to be put up for sale.

Before Amorim and United can get serious about their summer strategy, the immediate focus remains Thursday night’s Europa League quarter-final clash against Lyon at Old Trafford. The tie is finely poised after a 2-2 draw in the first leg in France, and the outcome will significantly shape what comes next.