Manchester United’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is determined to slash the staggering wage bill as the club grapples with the fallout from not qualifying for next season's Champions League. Currently holding the second-highest wage expenditure in the Premier League at a jaw-dropping £172.4 million annually, the club is facing a major overhaul after its dismal performance this season.

In light of recent struggles, including a missed £100 million bonus following a defeat in the Europa League final, a significant cleansing of the squad is on the horizon. Bruno Fernandes, the club’s Player of the Season, has even hinted at his openness to leaving Old Trafford. Let’s dive into the eleven players linked with summer exits and see how much the club could save in annual wages.

1. Casemiro - £18.2m

The Brazilian midfielder, who joined from Real Madrid in 2022 on a handsome £350,000-per-week contract, stands as the highest-paid player at the club. Despite his recent resurgence in form, whispers linking him to various Saudi Pro League teams suggest he may be heading out, saving United £18.2 million if he departs.

2. Bruno Fernandes - £15.6m

After a heartbreaking loss to Tottenham, Fernandes expressed his honesty about his future: he will remain until the club decides otherwise. With two years left on his contract and a lucrative salary, he has become a target for clubs like Al-Hilal, potentially costing United £15.6 million in wages if he leaves.

3. Marcus Rashford - £15.6m

Following a remarkable 30-goal season, Rashford’s form dipped, leading to a loan at Aston Villa who are currently covering 75% of his salary. If he does not return to Old Trafford, United could save another £15.6 million.

4. Jadon Sancho - £13m

Since his record £73 million move, Sancho struggled to find his footing. Currently on loan at Chelsea, he may face a summer exit, saving United £13 million if the Blues don’t opt to make the move permanent.

5. Christian Eriksen - £7.8m

Eriksen, a valuable player initially, has fallen out of favor. With his contract expiring and no talks for renewal initiated, his exit could free up an additional £7.8 million.

6. Victor Lindelof - £6.24m

The Swedish defender has been a key part of the squad since 2017 but finds himself in a replaceable spot now. With a contract nearing its end, not extending it could save the club £6.24 million.

7. Andre Onana - £6.24m

Onana, despite being touted as a solution in goal, has had his share of costly mistakes. With interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, his departure may release another £6.24 million.

8. Antony - £5.46m

The winger made a substantial wage leap after joining from Ajax but is currently sidelined on loan at Real Betis. Should United decide to sell him this summer, it could save £5.46 million.

9. Tyrell Malacia - £3.9m

Once seen as a rising star, Malacia's career at United has been marred by injuries. Having been loaned out to PSV Eindhoven, if the deal doesn’t turn permanent, United stands to save £3.9 million.

10. Jonny Evans - £3.38m

Evans has returned for a second stint but faces an uncertain future with injury issues looming. If he retires upon season's end, this will cut two-thirds of his £3.38 million salary.

11. Tom Heaton - £2.34m

As the third-choice keeper with limited appearances, Heaton is another candidate to exit as he nears a contract expiration. Saving the club a further £2.34 million.

In total, the departures of these eleven players could potentially save Manchester United a whopping £97 million in wages, aiding Ratcliffe’s mission to restructure the club’s finances. With summer just around the corner, it looks like Old Trafford is gearing up for major changes.