Manchester United want to qualify for the Champions League, but doing so will trigger wage increases for the current squad. Per The Guardian, most players at the club have clauses in their contracts that result in pay rises upon reaching Europe's elite competition. These salary hikes may make it difficult for United to sell high earners like Andre Onana and Marcus Rashford during the summer transfer window.
According to Sky Sports, United are looking to raise funds through player sales to comply with Profitability and Sustainability Rules. However, the increased wage demands of those already at the club could deter potential buyers. This financial situation follows a period where United have struggled to move on players with high salaries.
Rashford and Onana are among those whose marketability could be affected by the automatic pay rises. Per ESPN, United may need to find a balance between sporting success and maintaining a manageable wage bill as they organise their squad for the 2026-27 season.
