Ratcliffe eyes quick deals: Man Utd to make TWO signings before pre-season

Tom Weber

Updated: 21 Jun 2024 10:44 CDT
4 min read

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Man Utd, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Manchester United want to get their business done early this summer, according to a report.

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The Red Devils have sorted out their coaching question and are now getting down to transfer business. The weeks-long uncertainty surrounding the position of Erik ten Hag has delayed Man Utd's summer plans, but they are now poised to kickstart their transfer window.

According to Ben Jacobs, new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen to make at least two signings before Man Utd start their pre-season. It remains to be seen whether this is wishful thinking or realistic as the club continue their negotiations with Erik ten Hag over a new contract.

The Dutchman is set to have less control over transfers, though this could reportedly be a point of contention, with Ten Hag currently having the right to veto any proposed deals. As far as INEOS supremo Ratcliffe is concerned, he is desperate to turn Man Utd into England's Real Madrid, though he recognises that this can't be done in one transfer window.

Nevertheless, the billionaire is looking to make a start on his 'five-window plan' this summer.

Who could Man Utd sign?

It is as yet unclear who Man Utd's first two major signings of the summer could be because the Red Devils have thus far not had much reason to be positive about their prospects of landing their desired targets.

Their opening offer for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite was swiftly rejected as 'derisory,' while they have been told by UEFA that they can't sign Jean-Clear Todibo from sister club Nice, much to the chagrin of Ratcliffe.

Benjamin Sesko has decided to sign a new contract at RB Leipzig instead of moving to the Premier League and Chelsea currently lead the race for top winger target Michael Olise, with a recent report claiming that the Manchester giants have no intention to pay his €70 million release clause.

Seemingly the only signing that Man Utd could make shortly is that of Joshua Zirkzee. Despite the player having been close to an AC Milan move for some time, Man Utd are firmly in the race to sign the Bologna sharpshooter and it looks as though they are ready to trigger his €40m release clause.