Erik ten Hag could get his Manchester United summer transfer wish earlier than expected

Erik ten Hag knows he needs to improve his Manchester United squad this summer.

It is widely appreciated that last season was one of measured success, but it will count for very little if the solid foundations laid aren't built upon properly over the next year.

United have already signed Mason Mount from Chelsea to add another top-class option to their midfield and will look to strengthen their squad further with at least a goalkeeper and a striker.

It is easier said than done, though. Financial Fair Play restrictions have been well documented this summer, and amid the ongoing takeover uncertainty, it is still difficult to pinpoint exactly how much United will have to spend.

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United should have little problem financing a move for Andre Onana in the near future, but beyond that, it is clear that any further incomings could rely on some outgoings first.

Though it might seem as simple as listing a player for sale and waiting for the offers to roll in, the reality is that it doesn't quite work as effortlessly as videogames might make it appear.

It means United might not be able to strengthen the squad as much as they would like to this summer, and Ten Hag might need to work with what he has already got to address some of the issues he faces.

He has already hinted that he is willing to do so and has made it clear that he is open to giving youngsters a chance in the first-team, as long as they are good enough to warrant it.

"We have to improve the squad and you can do it with transfers, but also with players from across the academy," he told MUTV in midweek. "United is famous for bringing young kids to play in the first-team. I hope for