Managing Man United - De Ligt deal, Ten Hag transfer policy and midfield priority

Manchester United’s eighth-place finish last term - a Premier League record low - has put the impetus on INEOUS and Erik ten Hag to bring new recruits in this summer.

Earlier in the summer, United welcomed 18-year-old centre-back Leny Yoro from Ligue 1 side Lille as well as Joshua Zirkzee - who impressed in Serie A with Bologna last term, scoring 11 goals in 34 league appearances.

As ever, there were several links and reported bids for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite but the Toffees rejected United’s approach and he looks set for another season at Goodison Park. However, the arrival of former Ajax and Bayern Munich central defender Matthijs de Ligt should sure up United’s defence - last season Ten Hag’s side conceded 58 goals - finishing on a negative goal difference.

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In previous years, United have pursued older, experienced players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Raphael Varane and Casemiro - who tend to have a low sell-on value and struggle with fitness in Varane’s case.

This window has been different - the average age of the players acquired is 23 with Noussair Mazraoi the oldest at 26. This is a step in the right direction, even if the transfers do not go to plan these players will retain or even increase their value - which for United, creates a more sustainable policy around transfers.

After being reintegrated into Ten Hag’s squad after rebuilding their relationship, Sancho has been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain despite featuring in pre-season preparations ahead of the Premier League season.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the winger’s representatives were in