Ineos and Erik ten Hag have a transfer mission Manchester United can no longer ignore

Sitting eighth in the Premier League table and already out of Europe, Manchester United would be forgiven for loosening the purse strings over the next three weeks or so.

The opening of the January transfer window almost a week ago has, from some corners, been met with cries for United's hierarchy to dive into the market and splash the cash. You only have to look at United's recent history to know that won't be the case.

United are renowned for being quiet in January, rarely splashing the cash to bolster their squad mid-season. Last season, for example, they drafted in three new additions in January, each of whom arrived on loan.

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Similarly, though situations can change in an instant in January, United are not expected to spend big this month, if at all. They may only strengthen the squad if an enticing loan deal presents itself.

Therefore, it means any hopes United fans may have of seeing the squad significantly upgraded over the next few weeks will have to wait until the summer. After all, it will be during the off-season when INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, following their minority investment, will look to make their first meaningful mark on the squad.

Manager Erik ten Hag, speaking to the media on Thursday, said talks between himself and the new minority shareholders had been "very positive". Having been so encouraged by those initial discussions, he will be hoping to take full advantage of Ratcliffe's pledge to put United back on the map.

Last season, it felt as though United were in the process of announcing their rebirth, ending their wait