Ten Hag knows a plan key in transfer market

MANAGER Erik ten Hag has already highlighted the importance of Manchester United coming up with a coherent strategy ahead of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's impending arrival at the club.

- GEORGE SMITH

Ratcliffe's chemical giant, INEOS, is understood to be on the brink of securing a minority stake in the club. The group is understood to be paying north of £1billion to secure a 25 per cent stake from the Glazer family.

Though INEOS' impending investment will not oust the Glazers from office, there is a general feeling of optimism that their input will generate much-needed changes and fresh optimism. Richard Arnold's exit as chief executive on Wednesday provided the biggest indication yet that huge changes are in the offing.

INEOS, whose bid has been overseen by Ratcliffe, are reportedly set to secure sporting control at Old Trafford, meaning a major structural reset could take place. Arnold's exit suggests that will be the case, with Frenchman Jean-Claude Blanc having been installed as the early favourite to replace him.

Former AS Monaco sporting director Paul Mitchell has also been heavily linked with taking up a role at Old Trafford, overseeing the club's recruitment policy.