Manchester United will prioritise the signing of a new centre-back and a new left-back next year following Lisandro Martinez’s plea for additional reinforcements.

The Argentina international took aim at the club’s hierarchy for their lack of investment over the summer after their 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday, and it’s understood that he has been fined for his comments.

However, Man Utd are set to heed his advice by looking to bolster their defensive options in 2027 after their failed bid to sign Newcastle United star Lewis Hall this summer.

Sky Sports have confirmed that Man Utd are searching the market for centre-backs and left-backs, with the club ready to improve their first-team squad with several eye-catching additions next year. The Red Devils addressed their forward line in 2025 and their midfield in 2026, with their defence next on the agenda in 2027.

It comes after Carrick confirmed that reinforcements will be pursued during the upcoming January transfer window.

“When the next transfer window comes, you want to plan and you want to make the best of it,” Carrick told Sky Sports ahead of Man Utd’s clash against rivals Leeds United on Sunday.

“Whatever that looks like at this stage, we don't quite know. But without doubt, there's opportunity because the transfer window is open.

“So we'll definitely be looking at that and trying to come out stronger in whatever way that looks like.”

Michael Carrick feeling the pressure?

While Carrick has been heavily linked with the sack in recent days, the Red Devils boss isn’t yet feeling the pressure.

When asked if he believes he will get time to turn results around, Carrick added: “I do, yeah. But it's not something that I think about.

“I'm here to win football matches, but winning football matches short term with an eye on developing the club and pushing the club to be great.

“Again, in terms of results and winning things, it's a great club anyway, but on the pitch, we need to be great.

“We haven't quite hit that level in recent times, and I understand that. But I don't think about myself in my own situation, about how much time or what it looks like for me. There's no individual that's more important than this football club.”