Manchester United Transfer News: Targets United Would Be Crazy to Let Slip Away

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After losing the Premier League title race in the dying moments of last season, Manchester United will be looking to revamp this summer.

As with any big club, United have been linked to some of the biggest names on the market, and should have no problem signing their top targets.

Having said that, the Red Devils have already lost out in the race for Eden Hazard, following his move to Chelsea. What's more, it now seems the team have given up on Luka Modric, too.

Nevertheless, depth is certainly needed in defense and midfield. Those areas are where most—if not all—of the money will be spent.

Shinji Kagawa has already signed, and there will be more arrivals by the end of the summer.

Here are a few transfer targets that Manchester United should not let slip away.

Joao Moutinho

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ESPN has reported that Manchester United are now interested in Joao Moutinho, after losing interest in Luka Modric.

At a reported £25 million, as opposed to Modric's £40 million price tag, United should jump at the chance to sign the Portugal international.

Moutinho's stock rose after some solid displays during Euro 2012, and he could be a great addition to the United midfield.

The Porto midfielder would be a cheaper option than Luka Modric and brings a lot of the same qualities. That is a major reason why Manchester United should sign him.

Moutinho could slot into the 4-4-2 formation alongside Michael Carrick, while Shinji Kagawa could play in the attacking midfield/second striker role that he covets.

Mathieu Debuchy

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According to Metro, Manchester United were looking at Lille's Mathieu Debuchy back in May.

The report noted that the club could face competition in the form of Newcastle United, while the Daily Mail has since added Chelsea to the list of potential suitors.

For the most part, Debuchy was solid with France at Euro 2012. Furthermore, he is coming off a good season with Lille. The Frenchman would be an upgrade over current right-back Rafael and would solidify the team's defensive depth in the process.

With Debuchy and Rafael on the right, the Red Devils would have great strength in the middle of defense with Chris Smalling, Nemanja Vidic, Johnny Evans, Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones.

When needed, Jones could even be utilized in midfield to provide more depth in that position.

Debuchy certainly fills a need and would come at a decent price with Lille looking for a fee of around £6 million.

Leighton Baines

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Leighton Baines has been strongly linked to Manchester United by several sources this summer, including the Daily Mirror.

Patrice Evra's performances slipped last season, but even if he were to improve in 2012-13, United could still do with some help at the position. Leighton Baines would provide some tough competition for Evra and would alleviate defensive depth problems just as Mathieu Debuchy's arrival would on the right.

Baines could even provide a very solid option on the left side of midfield if Sir Alex Ferguson were so inclined.

The Everton player has all the EPL experience necessary and has the quality to step up to the plate in Europe as well.

Conclusion

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Manchester United definitely needs some added strength this season. Despite the club seemingly missing some of its targets so far, they have got off to a good start with the signing of Shinji Kagawa.

The three players on this list would be great additions to the club. They would significantly increase depth at their respective positions and strengthen the team as a whole.