Man Utd want two big-name transfers sealed before pre-season

Manchester United are reportedly looking to complete two big-name signings before Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad returns for pre-season training next month.

United boss Solskjaer is expected to overhaul his squad this summer after a disappointing season which saw the Red Devils miss out on next season's Champions League and fail to win any silverware.

The club are looking bring a number of new faces to Old Trafford in the coming weeks, with the focus thought to be on mixing youth and experience.

And The Sun reports that the United hierarchy are hoping to complete at least two deals before the start of July and have made finding a defender a priority.

According to the publication, the club have shortlisted a number of defenders including Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt and Tottenham's Toby Alderweireld, while Kalidou Koulibaly and Thomas Meunier are also understood to be targets.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to complete two big-name signings before the end of the month (PA)

A United source told the paper: “Some of the staff at Carrington have been told to expect at least two new faces visiting before training on July 1.

“The red carpet is being rolled out to prospective signings and their agents, showing them all we have to offer.

“We are pretty confident a couple are close to getting over the line. Talks are going well and have been before the end of last season.

“There could be as many as four that join up with the rest of the squad in upcoming tour of Australia and Far East.”

In addition to strengthening his defensive ranks, Solskjaer is also expected to bolster his midfield before the end of the summer.

Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt is believed to be on the club's shortlist (REUTERS)

Ander Herrera has already left the club and is expected to join PSG on a free transfer, while questions remain over the futures of Paul Pogba and Juan Mata.

And Solskjaer has already been linked with several targets, including Benfica wonderkid Joao Felix, Sporting Lisbon star Bruno Fernandes and French playmaker Adrien Rabiot, who will be available on a free transfer from PSG.

Meanwhile, Daniel James is set to become Solskjaer's first signing since becoming United boss.

The Wales winger has undergone a medical at Carrington after a £18 million fee was agreed with Swansea.

United are reportedly paying the Championship club £15m upfront for James, plus £3million in add-ons over the course of his contract.