Six England stars Gareth Southgate could lure to Man Utd

Six England stars Gareth Southgate could lure to Man Utd – like Jim Ratcliffe's No1 target

Gareth Southgate is being lined up as a replacement for Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, and the England boss could look to his Three Lions squad for some summer signings

England boss Gareth Southgate has emerged as a surprise frontrunner to take over from Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.

The new minority-owner of the Red Devils, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is understood to be prioritising bringing in Southgate this summer as he plans for life after Ten Hag. Southgate has had a successful run with England, guiding the Three Lions to the semi-finals of the World Cup and the final of Euro 2020.

He could leave his current role after this summer's Euros, and United are eager to bring him on board. If this happens, Southgate could turn to players he's worked with at international level to strengthen the Red Devils' team. Here, we look at six potential signings for United.

Despite only having two caps for England's senior team, Eberechi Eze would likely be on Southgate's radar. Eze has shone for Crystal Palace since joining from QPR in 2020.

This season, he's scored six goals and provided three assists, despite a challenging campaign for the Eagles. There's been a lot of talk about Eze leaving Selhurst Park this summer, and if Southgate takes over, United could be in the race to sign him.

Palace could be a top hunting ground for Southgate, with defender Marc Guehi also a potential target. Guehi is widely seen as being one of the best defenders in the top-flight outside the top six clubs, having impressed since his move from Chelsea two years ago.

While he is currently injured, Guehi is seen as a leading candidate for a place in Southgate's squad for the Euros. His leadership at the back is something United have also been crying out for.

While Rasmus Hojlund has recovered from a difficult start to impress up-front this season, United could clearly do with an alternative option at striker. Watkins has scored 22 goals for Aston Villa this season.

His record in front of goal has marked him out as one of the Premier League's top strikers. And it is clear that Southgate is a huge fan of the Villa star, having made him the primary back-up to Harry Kane in the England team.

Having just earned his first call-up to the England senior team, it is clear that Jarrad Branthwaite is a player on the rise. The defender has impressed for Everton despite their difficult campaign.

Branthwaite has earned rave reviews for the Toffees this term and has earned Southgate's trust. With new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe keen to pursue young stars, Branthwaite is the perfect profile for a future United star. Ratcliffe is known to consider the Everton centre-half is No1 summer transfer target too.

Jarrod Bowen, a star player in the Premier League for several seasons, has been in top form. He scored the winning goal when West Ham won the Europa Conference League last season and has been top class ever since.

This season, Bowen has shown his versatility by taking on the role of striker at West Ham and has secured a spot back in the England squad. His addition would certainly give United's attack a much-needed boost.

United's midfield has been lacking this season and they desperately need reinforcements. Despite Chelsea's challenging season, Gallagher has proven to be a reliable player.

The 24-year-old has demonstrated his leadership skills by serving as captain for extended periods during the campaign. He has also shown his ability to score goals at crucial times for Chelsea – a trait that is sorely missing at United.

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