MANCHESTER UNITED will find it tough to seal their top striker and midfield targets in the summer without a squad overhaul, according to reports.
The club will need to spend big to bring in their preferred players at the end of this season and they could face financial challenges in doing so.
AFPErik ten Hag may have to sell players so he can afford to buy his top transfer targets[/caption]
Many first-team stars could be sold to balance the books and allow for manager Erik ten Hag to continue his re-build of the squad.
The Telegraph report that even if the Glazer family sell the club it will not lead to a major boost in transfer funds for the summer.
This is because Man Utd still owe other sides £307million in unpaid transfer instalments and UEFA’s new financial rules could prevent them further.
The governing body are set to restrict spending to 70 per cent of total revenues by 2025/26 with it dropping ten per cent each time over the next three seasons.
Currently they reportedly splash out more than 80 per cent of revenues on transfers, wages and agents fees.
As a result, it is more important than ever that United qualify for the Champions League due to the extra money they would gain.
Another season out the elite competition would lead to a 30 per cent cut in their £75million-a-year deal with sponsors Adidas.
So that Ten Hag can buy top targets like Tottenham’s Harry Kane, Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong and Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, the club could have to sell players.
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United may decide to cash-in on the likes of Harry Maguire, Fred, Donny van de Beek and Aaron Wan-Bissaka to raise funds.
Reports suggest Ten Hag could have to choose between a marquee attacker or midfielder.
With the budget tight, the Red Devils are restricted to just loan signings in January with the club nearing completion of a deal for Wout Weghorst.
The club are aware of their financial limitations and have cheaper striker alternatives on their list of targets such as, Goncalo Ramos of Benfica and Mohammed Kudus at Ajax.