Ten Hag sends Man Utd powerful transfer message

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 1 Jan 2023 17:26 GMT
• 3 min read

Erik ten Hag has warned the Manchester United board that his Old Trafford squad needs reinforcements if it is to be competitive in the second half of the season.

Ten Hag has watched long-time target Cody Gakpo leave PSV to sign for rivals Liverpool, while Man Utd’s attack is depleted compared to the start of the season following the release of Cristiano Ronaldo in November.

The Dutchman has called for new players to arrive, though he has warned fans not to expect fireworks during the January transfer window, with his budget for signings likely to be limited.

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“We have a squad, we have players who are matching our criteria but with all the games that are coming, it is a tough competition,” Ten Hag said. “We want to be also playing in all of the competitions by winning in games and cups as well.

“So you need players, you need numbers to cover, so we need good players, not only numbers, you need quality players to cover that. You need also competition so that you can make technical choices, so we are looking for the right player for our squad and that has to match the sporting criteria but also the financial criteria.”

MORE: How cheapskate Man Utd tried to sign Gakpo in January

Man Utd's striker hunt

Man Utd began impressively following the break for the World Cup with a 3-0 home win over Nottingham Forest, but the manager clearly feels there is a need for greater depth if they are to reach their targets this term.

It increasingly appears that the loan market will be key in this pursuit of new blood.

Atletico Madrid attacker Joao Felix has been one player linked with the Red Devils, while Arsenal are also associated with a potential move for the Portugal international. Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic is another who has been associated with an Old Trafford switch, though the Serbia star is less likely to be available on a loan deal.