Romano issues response to surprising Ten Hag Man Utd transfer rumours

Suraj Radia

• 27 Jan 2024 08:20 CST
• 3 min read

Erik ten Hag still maintains control over Manchester United’s transfers despite rumours suggesting otherwise, according to Fabrizio Romano.

There had been speculation that the United boss may have to surrender some of his power ahead of the impending arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the incoming new regime.

Ratcliffe’s 25 percent investment into United is set to be ratified by the Premier League next month, which would reportedly see the INEOS CEO take control of United’s footballing operations.

But according to Romano, the change on the board would not impact Ten Hag’s grip on United’s transfer policy, with the new set up meant to aid the manager rather than limit him.

“I'm not aware of the rumours that Ten Hag is no longer in control of transfers at Manchester United, it's just the club preparing for big changes; new CEO, new director of football,” Romano said in his daily briefing.

“Ten Hag will have new people around him deciding together with him, this is the point, but it's part of many changes happening at Manchester United as is normal when there are new owners.”

Ten Hag to retain power at Old Trafford despite transfer blunders

Ten Hag had come under criticism in recent times due to his signings underperforming relative to their price tags, with some speculation that signings were tied to his agency rather than being chosen for their impact on the team.

In particular, the signing of Antony has been scrutinised due to the winger failing to provide a goal or assist in 22 appearances across all competitions this season, having cost United €95 million in 2022.

This season’s big money arrivals such as Ramsus Hojlund, Andre Onana and Mason Mount have also struggled to make their mark on the team, leaving United sitting 11 points outside the top four despite their significant outlay last summer.

But despite the question marks over his signings, Ten Hag appears to retain the faith of United and Ratcliffe, who is thought to want to keep the Dutchman at the helm for the near future.