Manchester United might need to decide between short-term and long-term success this summer

There is still so much up in the air as Manchester United begin the second stage of their rebuild under Erik ten Hag.

It is widely accepted that positive foundations were laid during the Dutchman's first season at the club, but the success of his appointment will likely hinge on what he does in his second campaign.

United find themselves in a familiar position, though there is certainly a fair argument to suggest things are looking more promising for Ten Hag than any of his predecessors.

The club is committed to backing up their faith in Ten Hag with funding this summer, but it is a complex matter given the takeover uncertainty and the fact that they must sell players to boost the budget.

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There are many variables to consider, and a high-profile move in one priority position will leave far less to spend elsewhere on the pitch, meaning it is essential that they manage to address the areas most in need of work first.

Signing a striker remains the top priority this summer, despite plans to also sign a new first-choice goalkeeper. Adding a new midfielder is arguably the third-most important thing to do, but it will likely be the first position that they manage to address.

Another key factor for United to consider is whether they target short-term or long-term success with their summer rebuild. One of the reasons they appointed Ten Hag was his ability to nurture young talent, though there is less patience to wait for success at a club of such size.

There are a lot of components that go into making a title-winning team, let alone one that challenges year after year, and in order to do so it seems United will need to gradually overhaul the age of their playing