Erik ten Hag has addressed speculation regarding Manchester United’s activity in the January transfer window, as well as missing out on the signing of Cody Gakpo.
It is no secret that the Red Devils need to sign a new striker in the winter. Depth in the position is significantly depleted following the exit of Cristiano Ronaldo and with matches coming thick and fast in all competitions, the club must bring it at least one reinforcement.
Currently, United are relying on Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial and whilst both players have been in exceptional form this season, the latter has struggled with three separate injury issues since August.
United are still in all competitions and have FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Europa League fixtures fast approaching. Each competition provides a great chance of Ten Hag securing silverware in his first year in charge, but can he afford to play full strength for each match to ensure the squad progress?
This week, it was confirmed that Dutch striker Gakpo had completed a move to rivals Liverpool, with the Merseyside team overseeing the deal within hours of making a bid. The Red Devils had been heavily linked with the 23-year-old since the summer but failed to table an offer.
Ten Hag on transfer speculation
Ten Hag was questioned on the prospect of January signings, as well as missing out on Gakpo. He told MUTV: “I think we have a squad. We have the players who are matching our criteria. But with all the games that are coming, it is tough competition in all the leagues. But if you want to also be in all the leagues and keep playing in all the leagues by winning games and cups as well.
“So, you need players, you need numbers to cover. So, we need good players. Not only numbers, you need quality players to cover that and also that you need competition. And you need also that you can make tactical choices. So, we are looking for the right player for our squad and has to match our sporting criteria but also our financial criteria.”
