Manchester United are enjoying a renewed sense of optimism as the club’s winning streak continues. Michael Carrick oversaw his fourth victory in a row as his side overcame Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend.
United maintained their place in the top four through goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford. The prospect of returning to Champions League football now looks to be a distinct possibility for the Red Devils, who also moved within three points of third place.
Off the pitch, club captain Fernandes has fuelled speculation regarding a reported transfer target ahead of the summer window. Here is a look at some of the headlines surrounding Old Trafford.
Fernandes played a starring role in United’s win over Spurs but he was not the only Premier League player to receive plaudits at the weekend. Chelsea's Cole Palmer scored a first-half hat-trick against Wolves and his display caught the Portuguese midfielder’s attention.
Palmer was linked with a move to United throughout the recent transfer window. Taking to social media, Fernandes endorsed United’s reported target by replying to the Chelsea star’s Instagram post: “What a player."
The England international has endured an injury-hit campaign, with his hat-trick taking his goal tally to seven in 14 league games. Palmer, who is contracted until 2033, has addressed the recent rumours about his future.
In a post-match interview, he said: "Everyone loves to chat s***, don't they? I don't pay attention to it. You see things but I feel like I come from a strong place anyway, so I don't pay attention to it."
United are fully focused on securing Champions League qualification, which would have a huge impact on the club’s summer transfer budget. Unlike their rivals, Carrick’s side are without European commitments and will look to use that to their advantage during the last 13 games of the season.
Teamtalk has reported that a return to Europe’s premier club competition would unlock a £200million summer transfer budget. United are claimed to be focusing on a midfield rebuild after overhauling their attack last year.
The club have previously been linked with top midfielders such as Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton. Nottingham Forest and England midfielder Elliot Anderson has also been touted for a move to Old Trafford.
There will be a spot to fill in the middle of the park as Casemiro is set to leave United at the end of the season. Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo has thrived since Carrick was named interim boss.
