Transfer Centre

Manchester United postpone January signings until Sir Jim Ratcliffe's arrival?

By Devesh Jaganath | 13 December 2023

Man United to postpone January signings until Ratcliffe's arrival?

Manchester United have reportedly decided to postpone their January transfer plans until Sir Jim Ratcliffe arrives at Old Trafford.

Manchester United have reportedly decided to postpone their transfer plans until Sir Jim Ratcliffe arrives at Old Trafford.

Ratcliffe's 25% stake in the club will entail assuming full control of sporting operations at Old Trafford as part of his ownership role.

The British billionaire finally agreed a deal with the Glazer family, believed to be in the region of £1.3bn, to secure his seat at the table almost a year after the club's shares were put up for sale.

According to Football Insider, Ratcliffe's investment agreement is on the verge of announcement, and significant behind-the-scenes changes are anticipated upon its completion in the coming days.

The report adds that among the changes expected will be the establishment of a new recruitment team tasked with handling the club's January transfer activities.

The Red Devils have been linked with several players over recent weeks, with Erik ten Hag believed to be advocating for the acquisition of a new centre-back and a striker, with the former being a top priority.

Man United have had several injury absentees in their defensive unit, with Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez all spending time on the treatment table at various points this season.

Raphael Varane has also been linked with a move away from Old Trafford in the upcoming transfer window, having fallen down the pecking order since returning from injury earlier this season.