Manchester United are trying to operate with a budget of around £120 million this summer, which can be topped up by sales. Mason Mount, the first signing by Erik ten Hag in this transfer window, was signed for an initial £55m plus add-ons and goalkeeper Andre Onana is expected to be the next player through Carrington's doors from Inter Milan for a similar fee.
That means the funds remaining in the kitty will be limited after just two signings and a striker is still yet to arrive. The signing of a prolific forward was the priority in this window, but it now seems like pieces on the chessboard will need to move. Want to join our MUFC Pro club for a totally ad-free version of the MEN’s Man United app packed with premium features? Click here ALSO READ: Everton interested in Anthony Elanga Harry Kane and Victor Osmihen, two of the most deadly and sought-after strikers in Europe last season, were the names on supporters' lips after the campaign and yet, they feel increasingly unattainable for various reasons.
To begin with, Tottenham owner Daniel Levy and Napoli owner Aurelio De Laurentiis are some of the most awkward negotiators in the game and they don't want to sell their prize assets, at least not for a transfer fee below £100m.
It's understood a figure in excess of £100m will be required to sign either Kane or Osimhen this summer and commitment to that, along with the signings of Mount and Onana, would take United's spending north of £200m again.