Manchester United are doing due diligence ahead of the summer transfer window even though they are yet to decide on their next permanent manager.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was installed as United’s caretaker coach until the end of the season and the club is expected to settle on Jose Mourinho’s full-time replacement in May or June. United also intend to appoint a head of football as part of a new ‘long-term’ structure after the short-termism of Mourinho’s and Louis van Gaal’s reigns.
Although those two posts might not be confirmed until the summer, United are pressing ahead with plans for next season, amid interest in a centre-back, a full-back and a forward. The MEN understands United have an existing list of transfer targets but any movement in the winter window is highly unlikely.
Upon the announcement of Mourinho’s sacking, United sources maintained they were open to doing business in January if the right player became available but concede the mid-season window is a difficult time to conclude business since eminent clubs do not want to sell.
Mourinho privately wanted two additions this month and clarified last month he was targeting at least one reinforcement. Solskjaer, who has presided over six wins from six, has already said he does not expect any incomings this month.
“I’m happy with squad I’ve got,” Solskjaer said two weeks ago. “I don’t expect anyone to come in but obviously if the club have targeted and identified a few and I think they might fit here, I’ll give my thumbs up. But it’s not just my decision.