Manchester United have a golden £35m transfer opportunity

There is a sliding doors moment last summer where Erik ten Hag probably doesn’t want to consider the alternative. It was a decision that could very easily have cost him his job.

As the Dutchman looked to reshape his squad a year ago he was willing to let Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay go. A bid was accepted for Maguire and there was interest in McTominay, but neither deal came off. Maguire turned down West Ham and Kobbie Mainoo’s injury helped put paid to an exit for McTominay.

It sums up the chaotic nature of last season that two players Ten Hag felt were surplus to requirements turned out to be so crucial. Maguire and McTominay were among the better performers as injuries hit hard.

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They both played pivotal roles to just about keep the season on track, but Maguire missed the FA Cup final through injury. Had he been fit, he almost certainly wouldn’t have started anyway. McTominay came on for just the final seven minutes.

That is a fair reflection of their status in the squad. With a fully fit group to choose from, Ten Hag would have Maguire and McTominay on the bench and that is why, a year on from almost leaving the club, their efforts of last season haven’t guaranteed another extension to their stay at Old Trafford.

It’s common knowledge that United must sell to raise funds and Maguire and McTominay are two players likely to attract interest again. Maguire’s future might depend on whether Victor Lindelof is sold.

McTominay was even more important than the centre-back last term. A player Ten Hag was willing to sell scored goals so valuable it helped to keep him in a job.