Erik ten Hag will reportedly have a paltry base sum to work with in the transfer window after he was kept on as Manchester United manager.
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Ten Hag survives at Man UtdWill have little control over recruitmentAround £50m for signings this summerWHAT HAPPENED?
Despite being retained as the club's manager, the Dutch tactician will have to navigate the transfer market with just £50 million ($64.20m) to spend initially, a stark contrast to the expectations and needs of the squad, according to the Moreover, with chief executive Omar Berrada set to begin in his role in the middle of next month, and sporting director Dan Ashworth joining the team later, the hierarchical dynamics have shifted, with Ten Hag's focus now more on coaching rather than recruitment – effectively reducing his influence on transfer decisions.
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With only £50m available for new signings, United must look to player sales to boost their transfer budget and comply with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations. Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial have already departed the club, with others expected to follow. The club is prepared to listen to offers for most of the squad, including notable names like Antony, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. These sales could be crucial for generating the necessary funds to bring in new talent. They are also open to offers for homegrown talents like Marcus Rashford and Scott McTominay, whose departures would contribute entirely to the FFP balance sheet.
DID YOU KNOW?
One of the primary targets for United is strengthening the defence. The club have several centre-backs on the shortlist, including Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice, Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton, and Leny Yoro from Lille. However, acquiring any of these players would consume a significant portion of their budget. Additionally, they are interested in Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee to provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund. However, without significant player sales, securing these transfers will be challenging.
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The uncertainty surrounding the squad and the financial limitations place Ten Hag in a difficult position. The current situation necessitates a strategic approach to player sales and acquisitions and the blueprint will be set by Berrada and Ashworth once they are in office at Old Trafford. Ten Hag could only hope that he gets a revamped squad at his disposal in August so that he can fight for silverware on multiple fronts.