It had all been going so well. Manchester United's transfer business this summer had seen them wrap up deals for their three key positional targets with Mason Mount, Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund arriving at Old Trafford.
And, with several fringe players seemingly set to depart, vital funds were expected to offer Erik ten Hag the chance to strengthen further.
But, although Anthony Elanga and Fred have moved on, exits for Harry Maguire and Dean Henderson now seem unlikely. It means what promised to be a healthy windfall has been cut dramatically and to make matters worse United's Premier League rivals Liverpool are looking to steal a march.
The Merseysiders have reportedly entered the fray for long-time United target Sofyan Amrabat. 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: Stopping Mbappe, reducing Ronaldo to tears - the £25million midfielderUnited would be getting The midfielder seems destined to leave Italian side Fiorentina and Old Trafford has long been touted as a potential destination given the Morocco international worked with Ten Hag during their time together at Utrecht.