Joao Neves stumbling block, Branthwaite deadline, Ten Hag factor - Man Utd transfer state of play

The countdown clock is ticking towards the opening of the Premier League transfer window on Friday, but at Manchester United there are more pressing matters to attend to first.

As we enter week three of Ineos' season review, a decision on the future of Erik ten Hag is imperative in the next seven days . There is a refusal to put a timeframe on finalising the evaluation of 2023/24 but providing clarity over the position of a manager is vital heading into the window.

It is set to be a busy one at Old Trafford as well. Incomings are guaranteed but the quantity of business done in Ineos' first window in charge is very much dependent on how much can be raised from outgoings. With Dan Ashworth still tending to his garden, it is technical director Jason Wilcox who will be string puller in-chief this summer.

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For now, there are some more routine decisions to mull over. Talks continue with Jonny Evans and Tom Heaton over potential contract extensions and the possibility of taking the option to sign Sofyan Amrabat permanently is essentially on hold until Ten Hag's future is resolved.

There are a couple of key priorities when it comes to arrivals. At least one new centre-back will be signed and a striker to replace Anthony Martial and share the burden with Rasmus Hojlund is also required.

Jarrad Branthwaite is a leading target at centre-back and the 'first' deadline of the window looms large. Everton could look to sell before June 30 to improve their own PSR position. A valuation of £75m would put United off, who have PSR concerns of their own to deal with. Bremer and Edmond Tapsoba