Erik ten Hag sent clear transfer message over current Manchester United squad

Erik ten Hag must start from scratch and completely overhaul the Manchester United squad. That is the damning message from former Scotland striker Ally McCoist as Ajax coach Ten Hag prepares to take over as United manager at the end of this season.

United insist no deal has been formalised, but the Eredivisie giants expect their manager to become Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's permanent successor at Old Trafford after Manchester Evening News revealed last month that he was a preferred candidate for the role. The other main contender was Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Change is on the horizon and key figures in the United boardroom have one eye fixed firmly on the upcoming transfer window. Outgoings are anticipated — as well as incomings — with Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard among those set to leave.

READ MORE: David Moyes sends Manchester United transfer message over Erik ten Hag appointment

Both players are into the final two months of their contract. However, if United are to turn around their fortunes, Pogba and Lingard can not be the only departures, according to McCoist.

Speaking on radio station talkSPORT, the pundit said: "There is a malaise throughout the place. There is no spirit, no life about them. I watched the game [against Everton] and it was baffling.

"You look at the players — Manchester United have got some fantastic players, but they are not a good team. They haven't got that blend in a team.

"Honestly, it could take a long time for Manchester United to get back to where they want to be because they are miles off from Liverpool and Manchester City. Obviously a new coach is going to come in and I think this is going to take a complete clean sweep of the squad. This is going to need an overhaul."