Manchester United football director John Murtough has outlined the club's spending plans for January - and made it clear there will be a lot less activity in the winter transfer window.
The Red Devils made six signings this summer under the leadership of Erik ten Hag, bringing in Antony, Casemiro, Martin Dubravka, Christian Eriksen, Tyrell Malacia and Lisandro Martinez. Meanwhile, a staggering 28 players left United, 12 exiting on loan.
United started this season poorly, losing their opening matches against Brighton and Brentford. But Ten Hag has since turned a corner with the Red Devils winning their past four matches in the Premier League.
Speaking on a call to discuss Man United's financial performance this Thursday, Murtough explained that while Ten Hag will continue to receive support from the club, he will have less cash to splash in January - a statement that hasn't gone down too well with fans.
"During the summer, we made a significant investment in the first team squad with the permanent addition of five regular starters, including a balance of experienced international players and younger, emerging talent," he said.
"We also saw a higher-than-usual number of departures, and this was an equally important part of refreshing the squad after the disappointing 2021/22 season.
"We will continue to support Erik in ensuring he has players with the right quality and characters to achieve success while ensuring that investment remains consistent with our commitment to financial sustainability.
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"Overall, we are ahead of schedule in our recruitment plans as envisaged at the start of the summer, and we do not anticipate the same level of activity in future windows. As always, our planning focuses on the summer window.
"While there is still a great deal of hard work ahead, we are confident that the right people and processes are being put in place to support all our teams in their pursuit of success."
Reacting to Murtough's statement, one fan tweeted: "Erik Ten Hag has publicly said we need to invest in January as well as summer The Glazers and Murtough both are now coming out and saying no. Never tell me Ten Hag is getting backed."
Another added: "How many opportunities missed because of this stubborn stance on the January window? At least agree a deal early for the summer window if you're going to be this way."
