Ed Woodward writes message to United fans ahead of transfer window

Manchester United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward (L) reacts ahead of the English League Cup semi-final second leg football match between Manchester City and Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on January 29, 2020. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Manchester United will be looking to add to their squad in the transfer market but Ed Woodward has issued caution as club navigates itself through what has been an unprecedented campaign.

Football clubs around the world will feel a financial pinch from the coronavirus pandemic.

You would be forgiven for thinking United’s size and commercial power could see them handle the pandemic better than most, so this message from Woodward appears to be a face-saving exercise should he fail to successfully land Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s summer targets.

One potential deal we’ll be keeping a close eye on is Jadon Sancho of Borussia Dortmund. The Bundesliga side have their valuation of the player and it remains to be seen if United find it excessive in what will be a difficult market for any club to sign elite players because they are bound to cost hefty fees.

The biggest argument is if United are in a better position than most clubs they should use this slight advantage to make ground on the likes of Liverpool and Man City. On the basis of this season, I feel Solskjaer deserves significant backing in the transfer window…

However, Woodward has urged fans not to expect huge sums to be shelled out on players.

The executive vice-chairman wrote in his programme notes (United Review): “The ongoing disruption from the pandemic — and the economic pressures it has created — has shown why it is so important for football clubs to focus on their financial stability.

“We are fortunate to have a strong and resilient commercial business which has supported long-term investment in our team. That will continue, albeit with extra caution in the coming months as we navigate our way through this uncertain period.”

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