After an opening weekend setback, Manchester United's frustrating summer continues with each passing day of transfers stalling.
Just three new faces have arrived since Erik ten Hag took over, despite the new manager having the whole summer to earmark targets. All three featured to some extent at Old Trafford on Sunday, when Ten Hag's team were beaten at home by Brighton & Hove Albion for the first time in the Seagulls' history.
There could be changes afoot for the next game, away at Brentford on Saturday, with Cristiano Ronaldo pushing for a start, while fan unrest has become visible. Here are the latest news lines from around Old Trafford.
Ronaldo's training promise
Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that he is fit and firing after appearing from the bench against Brighton. Last season's top scorer played less than 45 minutes on Sunday, having barely featured in pre-season.
The Portugal international has returned to training, and is pushing for a start against Brentford. He shared a photo of himself during training exercises with the caption “Hard work always pays off”.
Ronaldo wasn't involved in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Halifax, but has been back in training as United aim to bring him back up to speed. Christian Eriksen was used as a forward on Sunday's game, but things could change in west London.
Gakpo going nowhere
PSV have dealt Man Utd and other Premier League teams a blow, suggesting in-demand forward Cody Gakpo will stay put. United are just one of a number of English sides linked with the Dutchman, alongside the likes of Arsenal, Leeds and Nottingham Forest.
The forward, who had been tipped to move if a bid of £35m arrived, only signed his last contract renewal in January. He has two league goals already this season, and played the full 120 minutes as PSV beat Monaco in the Champions League in midweek
According to the Daily Record, PSV are unwilling to sanction a sale under any circumstances. Ruud van Nistelrooy's side are set to take on Rangers for a spot in the Champions League group stage, with the first leg at Ibrox taking place on August 16.
Protest plans mocked
Former Liverpool defender Jose Enrique has mocked the latest planned protest from Manchester United fans. Supporters have been urged to stay away from Old Trafford on August 22, when United host Liverpool.
A protest before the corresponding game in 2021 saw fans enter the pitch, causing the match to be postponed. This year, the #EmptyOldTrafford campaign has been gathering pace on social media.
Jose Enrique couldn't resist a dig, though, sharing a mocking video on his social channels. It remains to be seen which team gets the last laugh later in the month.
