Manchester United make World Cup star their new 'top' transfer target

Manchester United have reportedly identified a new priority transfer target as they continue reshaping their squad during the summer window.

Michael Carrick is keen to strengthen his first-team options and is understood to favour players with proven Premier League experience.

United have already agreed a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta and remain determined to add at least one more central midfielder before the transfer window closes. They had hoped to secure the signing of West Ham's Mateus Fernandes but appear to have missed out after Tottenham Hotspur agreed an £85million deal.

As a result, United are expected to step up their interest in Bournemouth's Alex Scott, while Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni also remain on their shortlist.

And despite losing out on Fernandes, United could still return to West Ham in their search for reinforcements.

Summerville emerges as United's top attacking target

While midfield remains the club's priority, United are also looking to strengthen in attack if circumstances allow.

Carrick is reportedly eager to add another left-sided winger, with West Ham's Crysencio Summerville now identified as the club's leading target.

According to Sky Sports, United have drawn up a four-man shortlist that also includes Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo and Everton's Iliman Ndiaye. However, Summerville is said to be the preferred option.

West Ham are said to value the Dutch winger at around £50million following their relegation to the Championship. After securing a substantial fee for Fernandes, the Hammers could now be more willing to sanction another major sale.

Summerville scored seven goals and provided five assists during West Ham's relegation campaign. He has also impressed United's recruitment staff with his performances for the Netherlands at the World Cup.

After making his senior international debut in March, the winger registered two goals and two assists before Ronald Koeman's side were eliminated by Morocco on penalties earlier this week.

READ MORE: Manchester United 'approached' by Ruben Amorim's AC Milan over cut-price deal for player

Rashford's future remains key

Any move for Summerville is expected to depend on Marcus Rashford's future at Old Trafford.

Rashford is currently away with England at the World Cup and will be entitled to an extended break once the tournament concludes. His future remains uncertain after Barcelona opted not to activate the £26 million option to make his loan move permanent.

The Spanish champions are reportedly interested in bringing him back on another loan deal, but United are only prepared to consider a permanent transfer.

Although a sale remains the preferred outcome for all parties, there is still a possibility that the 28-year-old could revive his United career under Carrick after falling out of favour during Ruben Amorim's tenure.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed earlier this week that direct contact has taken place between Rashford's representatives and United regarding the player's future.

According to Romano, Barcelona have not ruled out another loan approach, but United remain unwilling to entertain that option. Instead, discussions have focused on the possibility of reintegrating Rashford into Carrick's squad if a suitable permanent transfer fails to materialise.

Romano added that United have informed Rashford they would be happy to welcome him back for pre-season training, while the England international has not closed the door on remaining at Old Trafford.