Erik ten Hag is playing long game with Manchester United's Donny van de Beek

Manchester United's obvious area of weakness has been highlighted in pre-season with Jadon Sancho forced to play as a striker.

The Englishman took his goal against Arsenal superbly, latching onto a mistake by Gabriel to fire into the roof of Aaron Ramsdale's net. Undoubtedly, though, he would much prefer to be playing in his natural role off the flank which hasn't been possible during pre-season.

With Anthony Martial on the sidelines and Wout Weghorst back at Burnley, United's need for a number nine is evident. The club remain in talks with Atalanta for Rasmus Hojlund and are monitoring Harry Kane's situation in case Tottenham are inclined to sell.

United may need to raise funds in order to buy their new number nine, having spent £107million on Andre Onana and Mason Mount. Two necessary signings but not more important than getting a striker through the door.

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If they're to raise those funds, they need to raise the stock of their unwanted players. Pre-season can be a shop window for United, if they play their cards right.

Fred is available for the right price, with Fulham sniffing around, as could be several others in the squad. That is including Donny van de Beek.

After moving for £40million, he has barely created a dent in repaying that figure. His three seasons at United have seen him underused, sent out on loan and injured.

The Dutchman made his comeback from a long-term knee injury in pre-season and scored a brilliant winning goal against Lyon on Wednesday night. A flash of quality which