da premier bet： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…
da dobrowin： Speaking to The Evening Standard, Mike Phelan has delivered his verdict on Manchester United’s transfer plans going forward into the future.
What’s the word?
The Red Devils made just three permanent signings in the summer transfer window, bringing in Daniel James, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Harry Maguire. Though the trio cost well in excess of £100m combined, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side also saw major departures, including Romelu Lukaku for £74m.
And with reports in recent weeks claiming the club are very much interested in signing the likes of Jadon Sancho and Erling Haaland, Phelan insisted that the Red Devils are still targeting “superstar” players, despite looking to develop homegrown talent.
He said: “I think there has got to be a blend. I think Manchester United still do want superstars, but I think they still want to see them coming through and progressing and being part of something special.
“The fans are changing all the time. We’ve got senior fans, old age pensioners, young fans, but it’s become far more global than it’s ever been and I think all those people understand what Manchester United is all about otherwise they wouldn’t support them. They don’t just support them for the superstars, they support them because they can embrace the whole tradition of the football club.”
Encouragement
For any United fan out there perhaps concerned that the days of signing marquee players were over, then Phelan’s comments should offer some encouragement. Looking to develop the club’s academy players and buying homegrown talent is all well and good, but it doesn’t mean the net shouldn’t be cast wider. The Red Devils’ history and allure is second-to-none, particularly in English football, and that means they can attract the very best around.
So whilst signing someone like Daniel James from the Championship at a relatively cheap £15m is shrewd business, that kind of approach to the transfer market should be backed up with some moves for some truly stellar names and individuals. Phelan’s verdict bodes well for what United are trying to accomplish over the coming windows.
Meanwhile, a BBC Sport pundit has revealed the one man who Manchester United “precisely” need.