Erik ten Hag can’t overlook Manchester United’s transfer window problems.

Which positions are most likely to be targeted first and foremost is clearly apparent. United’s midfield options are already limited, and with the departures of Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic, the situation is set to deteriorate even further. As a result, a new defensive midfielder – with a deal for Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips currently being discussed – as well as a more dynamic and technically gifted box-to-box option will be required. Finally, after years of squandering money on other areas, Manchester United has decided to make midfield reinforcements a priority this summer, which is a relief.

The addition of a center-back is also high on the priority list following yet another season of poor defensive play. This year hasn’t been easy for Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, and Victor Lindelof. With Bailly and Jones likely to leave, another player is being looked at.

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In addition to those three areas, there is another area that has been a problem for United throughout the campaign that needs to be addressed. Right-back.

As Europe’s finest teams strive to build all-conquering sides in recent years, full-back has emerged as a critical position for them to develop. Look at the caliber of players that Liverpool and Manchester City have on their respective teams. United, particularly on the right, simply do not measure up to the competition.

So while many of other positions need immediate attention in the summer transfer window, Ten Hag will also have to address his full-backs, too. Despite Alex Telles’ terrible tenure in the side, the left-back should be fine for at least another year, according to the club. Despite a disappointing season, Luke Shaw continues to be a very excellent player, while promising youngster Alvaro Fernandez is pressing his way into the first squad as well as possible.
However, there is substantial need for improvement in the right-back position. Ethan Laird, a youngster, could make an impression during pre-season, but a permanent replacement is almost probably necessary. Perhaps it won’t even require a substantial increase in the budget, given the fact that cost-effective solutions – such as Jurrien Timber and Djed Spence – have the potential to be significant enhancements over what they already have.

While Ten Hag will be faced with a slew of important decisions this summer, failing to recruit a new right-back will put his team’s future in jeopardy.