So after 12 years at Old Trafford, David de Gea is now out of contract at Manchester United.
His career at Old Trafford now hangs in the balance, while the likes of Wout Weghorst and Marcel Sabitzer have officially headed back to their parent clubs. And for Erik ten Hag the focus remains on getting players in through the door ahead of the club's return to the Champions League next season.
The signing of Mason Mount from Chelsea appears all but done after both clubs agreed a fee, but as well as the goalkeeper issue, the Dutch boss is also after a big name striker.
And in the background, the unresolved takeover saga continues to rumble on, with Sheikh Jassim now reportedly the front runner to takeover from the much maligned Glazers.
Mirror Football looks at the latest transfer news from around Old Trafford.
David de Gea 'not to join rival club' despite release
Manchester United have bizarrely requested that David de Gea does not sign for a different club despite letting him leave as a free agent.
The Spaniard officially departed Old Trafford on Friday upon the expiry of his contract. United were initially keen to tie him down to a new deal and an agreement was found on fresh terms on reduced wages.
But talks are still ongoing and according to The Sun, the Red Devils have told De Gea not to agree to a move elsewhere. The reason behind that thinking is that they want the former Atletico Madrid man to be available should they not be able to sign a new number one stopper.
Jose Mourinho eyes a swoop for Fred
Former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is eyeing a swoop for Red Devils’ star Fred - despite previously being unsure about the Brazilian.
The ex-Shakhtar Donetsk star has already been linked with a move away from Old Trafford this summer. And according to The Sun, Roma are among the clubs attempting to sign him.
It is suggested that Mourinho has been promised funds in the Italian capital this summer, with Fred among those who is being targeted. It is said that the ex-United boss is a big fan of the Brazilian international and would be aiming to build his midfield around him next season.
Barca chief confirms Frenkie de Jong offer
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed that the Spanish giants received a mega-money offer for Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong last summer - and has claimed fresh bids have been tabled.
The Red Devils were strongly linked with a move for the Dutch midfielder as Erik ten Hag aimed to add to his midfield options at Old Trafford. He was identified as a prime target, with Barcelona open to selling due to the dire financial situation at the Camp Nou - but a move did not materialise.
Speaking to TV3, Laporta said : "Last year it happened (an offer) and we were worse. We had an offer of €100m (£86m) for De Jong and we were right not to accept it."
