According to the Telegraph, Manchester United’s summer transfer business will depend on players being sold and the club making it to the Champions League next season.
Despite being close to signing their second loan player, the Red Devils appear to be in for a quiet January transfer window. Erik ten Hag is only able to spend a small amount of money on the market despite his desire to strengthen the team. Fortunately, United’s summer transfer spree has already propelled them up the Premier League standings as they aim to clinch a top-four finish.
Despite ambitions to sign a top-tier striker and central midfielder for Ten Hag, the club’s success in winning a Champions League spot and earning money through sales will be the keys to any chances of signing new players in the summer.
The reason for this is that by the 2025–26 season, clubs across Europe will only be allowed to spend 70% of their total revenue on transfers, wages, and agent fees under UEFA’s new fee–control regulations.
In order to continue investing in their team, United will need to raise some of their own money through player sales since UEFA expects a 90% compliance rate by the start of the next season.
Returning to the Champions League despite missing out on qualifying for the competition the previous season might also greatly improve United’s financial situation.
According to the source, United have identified Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Frenkie de Jong, Victor Osimhen, and Benjamin Sesko as five prospective targets.
Kane might be available next summer as his contract is set to expire soon. Sesko is expected to join RB Leipzig. Meanwhile, Napoli may seek more than £100 million for Osimhen. Despite the fact that Bellingham is greatly admired, there is a feeling that United may find it difficult to raise the amount of money that Borussia Dortmund will require in order to agree to a transfer.
If United completes its season-long objectives, there is optimism that the club will still be able to sign one striker and one midfielder for Ten Hag. The Red Devils have only been able to explore the loan market this January as a result of the severe financial restrictions.
