In a move that signals a significant shift in Manchester United’s transfer strategy, new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has declared an end to the practice of signing high-profile players at the twilight of their careers. This means that the likes of Casemiro and Raphael Varane, both former Real Madrid stars, are unlikely to remain with the club beyond this season. Ratcliffe, who took over as part-owner in August 2023, has made it clear that the club must change its recruitment model and focus on players who have a future sell-on value. This marks a departure from the ‘Hollywood’ signings of the past, such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Bastian Schweinsteiger, and Edinson Cavani, who joined United in the latter stages of their careers. Ralf Rangnick, who was appointed interim boss at United in November 2021, had previously flagged up that United were wasting big money on players trading on past reputations. Ratcliffe’s approach aligns with Rangnick’s concerns and emphasizes the need for a more sustainable and forward-looking transfer strategy. United paid a staggering £115 million for the duo of Casemiro and Varane and pay them a combined £700,000-a-week in wages. However, Casemiro, who was already 30 when he arrived at Old Trafford, has faced criticism for his lack of mobility and energy, while Varane, who was younger at 27, has been hampered by reliability issues since his move to United. A replacement is being actively sought, but the age profile may well be different, with Lille teenager Leny Yoro scouted by United in their Europa Conference League and Ligue 1 games. Ratcliffe does not intend United to be a selling club, but he wants any signings he makes to have a sell-on value and won’t countenance writing off millions on players who are worthless at the end of their contracts. That’s why reports of moves for Ivan Toney, reportedly valued at £100 million by Brentford, would be at odds with the transfer strategy Ratcliffe is trying to create. Even at £75-80 million, Toney, 28 last month, would have little sell-on transfer value as the Bees star would be 32 years old at the end of a four-year contract. Ten Hag has already signaled 21-year-old Rasmus Hojlund, signed from Atalanta for £72 million last summer, needs help in attack with Leipzig’s 20-year-old hit man Benjamin Sesko, with 18 goals for club and country this season, of interest. But the Dutch boss – if he’s still around – may be disappointed with the days of routine big money transfer swoops every summer set to be ended by Ratcliffe. Although United are cost-cutting and streamlining staff, word from inside the club’s Carrington training HQ is that veteran defender Jonny Evans may have been earmarked for a future position on the coaching staff. Evans, 36, is in his second spell at Old Trafford and has so far played 25 times in all competitions this season after being originally recruited to boost numbers for United’s summer tour to America last year. Despite several excellent displays, it’s uncertain if the Northern Ireland defender will be offered another one-year deal. That’s likely to be determined once the futures of Varane, Victor Lindelof, and Harry Maguire have been sorted out. But, Evans’ calmness, football knowledge, and experience have been noted by senior figures who, going forward, are keen to keep him involved with young defenders like Willy Kambwala. Ethan Wheatley’s goal exploits for the Under 18 side has made him a major loan target for Championship and League One clubs next season. Wheatley, who like Kobbie Mainoo is from Stockport, was promoted to the first team bench for the 2-2 draw at Bournemouth and the FA Cup win over Coventry City on the back of impressive performances for Adam Lawrence’s side, notably the 9-1 win at Liverpool. Wheatley scored a 57-minute hat-trick as United ran riot. And the striker isn’t the only United player being eyed for a loan opportunity. Left-back Harry Amass and midfielder Omari Forson are both interesting Championship sides. But the big dilemma for Erik ten Hag will center on Amad Diallo, who hasn’t kicked on from scoring the winner as United beat rivals Liverpool 4-3 in the FA Cup. The options are sell, loan – or keep him in the squad next season with the 21-year-old wanting answers on his future.
Manchester United Ends Era of ‘Hollywood’ Signings Under Sir Jim Ratcliffe
