Manchester United’s Transfer Dilemma: ten Hag’s Hasty Decisions and the Quest for a Striker

As the winter transfer window approaches, Manchester United finds itself in a precarious position, with Erik ten Hag likely to dip into the market once again in search of a striker. The aftermath of the summer transfer window has left questions lingering, especially regarding the club’s failed pursuit of Harry Kane and the impact of hasty decisions on their overall strategy.

During the summer, the football world was abuzz with speculation about Harry Kane’s potential move, with Manchester United positioned as one of the prime contenders for his signature. However, the unexpected twist came when Kane opted for Bayern Munich in a £100 million deal. The decision proved to be a masterstroke for the Germans, with Kane already notching up an impressive tally of 25 goals, including 21 in the Bundesliga, this season.

In the quest for attacking prowess, Manchester United veered away from the pursuit of Kane and instead secured the services of Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta in a £72 million deal. While the move promised financial savings, both in terms of transfer fees and wages, it introduced an element of uncertainty. Hojlund, a 20-year-old Denmark international, was relatively unproven at the highest level, having scored only nine Serie A goals in the previous season.

Unfortunately for United, Hojlund has yet to find his scoring boots in the Premier League, remaining goalless in 13 appearances. The lack of impact from the young striker may necessitate a return to the transfer market for Ten Hag in January, adding to the pressure on the manager to make astute decisions.

United’s transfer activities during Ten Hag’s initial window appeared measured until a failed bid for Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona forced them into urgent action. The collapse of the De Jong deal prompted a swift move for Casemiro from Real Madrid. The decision-making process, according to reports, was rushed and led to what is now perceived as a panic buy.

The pursuit of midfield reinforcements saw United considering a move for West Ham’s Declan Rice, with an anticipated cost of around £120 million. Opting for Casemiro instead, primarily due to the lower financial outlay, was a decision influenced by the desire for an immediate impact. However, Rice eventually made a £105 million switch to Arsenal, leaving United to evaluate the true cost of their choices.

The age factor played a significant role in the decision-making process, with Rice being 23 at the time compared to Casemiro’s 30. Despite Casemiro’s initial contributions, recent struggles in form and fitness have raised doubts about his long-term suitability. Clubs in Saudi Arabia reportedly express interest in the Brazilian, and the looming ownership change under Sir Jim Ratcliffe could further complicate the scenario.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, set to acquire a 25 percent stake in the club, is expected to bring about changes in United’s transfer strategy. His reported questioning of the decision to sign Casemiro indicates a desire for a more considered and strategic approach. With Ratcliffe likely to bring in his team of transfer experts, including sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford, the club is on the brink of a significant transformation in its approach to transfers.