Manchester United are gearing up for an important summer in the transfer market, with lots of work to do.
After watching Manchester United this season, you would be hard-pressed not to agree that the club needs major re-sculpting.
Ineos are busy conducting ‘open heart surgery’ behind the scenes at Old Trafford, with more changes made this week, and shortly, attention will turn to the playing staff.
One issue for Manchester United is working out just how much money will be available, for which to conduct the necessary business of signing players.
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Manchester United transfer budget
Sir Jim Ratcliffe cited a major issue he was worried about was qualifying for the Champions League and how this would affect their plans. It is now out of reach.
Erik ten Hag said in his press conference that this will have an impact, although insists United will still be able to tempt players in.
The issue lies with how much money will be available to spend, with ambitions to sign a striker and a centre-back. A midfielder and left-back could be needed too, and perhaps a creative midfielder or winger.
The first claim has now been made over how much money could be available to spend this summer.
Journalist Ben Jacobs has told the MUFC MPB YouTube channel that he expects the transfer budget to be £100 million plus player sales.
He said: “They are confident assets can be sold to raise funds. They’ve got about £100 million to spend.”
Jacobs added that United will find it difficult to balance all the squad needs with the finances, adding: “Have you got enough money to spend, without spending £200-250 million, which is not within Manchester United’s capabilities?”
He insists the top priority for the club will be a striker, and then defence and midfield will be prioritised dependent on who leaves.
At present Raphael Varane could leave when his contract runs out, along with Anthony Martial, which will likely mean those two positions are indeed the top two priorities.
Money would be saved from their very expensive wages upon their exits.
Manchester United’s 2023 budget
In late May, 2023 it was reported by The Mail, that Manchester United’s budget for the 2023 transfer window was £100 million, plus player sales.
Last summer United’s net spend was £110.85 million in total. This comprised of £174.3 million spent, and player sales totalling £63.45 million.
United might need to sell even more efficiently this summer, but they definitely need to buy more wisely.
This summer we are hoping Ineos can spot and locate a few bargains to go along with the bigger signings the club may need to make too, as it really is a window where quantity is needed as well as quality.