Manchester United are planning for two scenarios in this summer's transfer window

Currently languishing 13th in the Premier League table, Manchester United know they will have their work cut out just to achieve a top half finish this season.

Twelve defeats in their opening 29 games looks set to see them record their lowest-ever finish in the Premier League era. United recorded their lowest finish since the birth of the Premier League as recently as last season, finishing eighth.

Despite an upturn in results and performances prior to the international break, United still find themselves seven points shy of 10th-placed Bournemouth. It would be impressive if they were to finish above the Cherries.

As a result of United being increasingly likely to finish in the bottom half, immense pressure is resting on their Europa League campaign. Ruben Amorim's side progressed to the quarter-finals earlier this month with a 5-2 aggregate victory over Real Sociedad.

United will resume their European campaign against Lyon in a fortnight's time with the knowledge that winning the Europa League is their only hope of salvaging something from what has otherwise been a forgettable campaign.

Winning the competition will see them clinch a third trophy in as many seasons and, perhaps more importantly, secure a route back into the Champions League. Champions League qualification for the following season is arguably the biggest attraction of winning the Europa League, and United need that added bonus more than ever before.

The club's financial situation means they are going to have to box very clever with their recruitment in what will be Amorim's first summer transfer window at the helm. It is a far from ideal situation for what promises to be such a pivotal summer.

As reported by the Manchester Evening News on Monday, player