If Federico Chiesa’s transfer to Manchester United is finalised this summer, Erik ten Hag will have a plethora of options. The 26-year-old forward’s future at Juventus is becoming more and more uncertain as his Turin contract is about to expire in 2019.

In the previous Serie A season, Chiesa made 33 appearances for the Old Lady, tallying three assists and nine goals. He made an impression even though the Italian powerhouses had several bad performances that left them 23 points behind champions Inter Milan.

As they attempt to defend their championship at Euro 2024, Roberto Mancini has awarded the Italy international with a spot in the starting lineup. Chiesa has been strongly linked to a transfer to the Premier League, despite not having signed a contract extension at Juventus.

Juventus have already shown their willingness to exchange players this summer, swapping Enzo Barrenechea and Samuel Iling Jr plus cash for Douglas Luiz. So, with that being said, the Manchester Evening News has taken a look at three different ways United could line up on the opening weekend of the Premier League season with Chiesa in the side.

4-2-3-1

Ten Hag has regularly used a 4-2-3-1 since taking the reins at United. With a pragmatic defensive structure, the Red Devils could unleash one of the most dangerous attacks in the Premier League.

Man United in a 4-2-3-1 if Ten Hag signs Chiesa this summer

With Chiesa on the right, Marcus Rashford on the left, Bruno Fernandes in the number 10 role and Rasmus Hojlund leading the line, United will strike fear into any defence. Not to mention Alejandro Garnacho will be available off the bench, in addition to whoever else Sir Jim Ratcliffe brings to Old Trafford. Joshua Kimmich, anyone?

4-3-3

While there are many similarities between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-3-3, there will be a greater emphasis on the wingers to provide Hojlund support. Whether they’re making runs in behind to stretch the opposition backline or combining with the Dane, Chiesa and Rashford will have to put in the hard yards.

Man United in a 4-3-3 if Ten Hag signs Chiesa this summer

The Italian also has a tremendous work rate, which will be just what Ten Hag needs – especially if United want to maintain a high intensity across the span of a season, which will likely includes a cup run or two.

4-4-2

Towards the end of the 2023/24 campaign, Ten Hag used a narrow 4-4-2. This proved particularly effective in transition, regularly catching the opposition on the counter-attack.

Man United in a 4-4-2 if Ten Hag signs Chiesa this summer (Image: BuildLineup.com)

If the Dutchman really wants to throw the kitchen sink at a team then lead with Rashford and Hojlund, while Chiesa and Garnacho take up wide positions. Then, in the heart of midfield, Bruno Fernandes can partner Kobbie Mainoo.