Manchester United are gearing up for their first-ever transfer window of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era, which is expected to bring wholesale changes across the board.
A turbulent season at Old Trafford has cast doubt on the future of Erik ten Hag in the dugout, with reports frequently claiming that managerial candidates are being shortlisted in case the Dutchman’s tenure is cut short.
In line with such a significant decision, Ratcliffe – with the help of his entourage – is tasked with bolstering United’s squad sufficiently enough so that they can go head-to-head with the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool next term.
The impending arrival of Dan Ashworth, whom Everton’s Kevin Thelwell lauded as ‘the best director of football this country has produced’, has sparked optimism that the decade-long affairs of failed, mega-money United signings – Antony, Alexis Sanchez, Jadon Sancho, Angel Di Maria and so forth – can come to an abrupt end.
United’s starting transfer budget
ESPN claims that the Red Devils hierarchy will enter the market this summer with an estimated net spend of around £100 million allowed. This, of course, can increase when the exits of numerous deadwood players have been sanctioned.
Reducing the club’s eye-watering payroll will also be on the agenda of INEOS and Co, and in June, £450,000 will be slashed off the books when Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial’s contracts expire.
With the injury issues suffered by Martinez, coupled with the end of contract for Varane and Evans, as well as the hopeful sales of Maguire and Lindelof, United are in need of two quality centre backs.
Casemiro and Eriksen will also hopefully depart, but again a need for two defensive midfielders to come in will also be necessary.
With Martial also out of contract, a centre forward will be necessary, unless there is any way back for Mason Greenwood.
We can but hope that Antony is sold, giving Amad a chance for showcase his abilities, and Greenwood would offer support in that and the centre forward role.
So a tough ask, 2 Centre backs and 2 Defensive midfielders, as well as a centre forward and right winger and all for £100, million