Manchester United have £400m January transfer window conundrum

Manchester United's transfer hit rate under Erik ten Hag wouldn't be the envy of many.

The Dutchman has splashed £400million since his arrival but has precious little to show for the output. The Carabao Cup and a place in the top four were secured last season amid a campaign that hinted at progress.

But it was the long-serving Marcus Rashford who was the standout performer while of Ten Hag's 16 signings since being appointed United manager, you'd struggle to say more than three have been a success. Indeed even that trio of Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have suffered at times.

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The embarrassing weekend defeat to Bournemouth further emphasised how United have fallen behind their rivals this term. While the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City can point to summer success stories in the transfer market, United look weaker than the team that finished third last time around.

It would be a major surprise to see the Reds match that achievement in 2024 with the likes of Tottenham and Aston Villa looking far more cohesive than the team Ten Hag has built. United can actually count themselves somewhat fortunate to still be in with a shout of the top five, which this year will likely bring Champions League football. But it seems it's more luck than judgement.

Not too many saw this difficult second album coming. Cast your mind back to the summer and there was a sense of achievement at the business United conducted. A move for Harry Kane didn't materialise but Ten Hag identified his targets and the Reds