Sir Jim Ratcliffe sets 'significant' Man Utd transfer budget as key positions targeted

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is prepared to sanction a 'significant transfer spend' this summer as Manchester United rebuild for the long-term future.

Ratcliffe was officially confirmed as United's new co-owner earlier this week, following full ratification of his investment into the club. Despite owning a minority share - 25 per cent rising to around 29 per cent by the end of this year - the INEOS chief will take complete control of footballing operations.

A major part of that remit will come in the form of transfers and Ratcliffe's impact on United will ultimately be judged on the pitch, where recent history has been far from the standard. Investment will be needed this summer and The Daily Mail reports that there will be freedom to spend.

United have been hamstrung by profit and sustainability concerns at points under Ten Hag, particularly during the Dutchman's two January windows in which no permanent signings were made. Summer has tended to see significant investment, however, and things will be no different this year.

Transfer coffers will be boosted by the likely sale of several first-team players, with few in the current squad guaranteed a spot next season. Scott McTominay, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Casemiro and Jadon Sancho are all expected to bring in decent money.

Furthermore, high earners Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane are set to leave as free agents and removing their wages will free up more money. Offers will also likely be welcomed for loanees Donny van de Beek and Facundo Pellistri.

United are keen to strengthen across the board this summer, with particular focus on signing a No.9. Ten Hag is aiming to bring a more experienced option into the role who can help aid the development of 20-year-old Rasmus Hojlund.

Central defence will also be a priority area, given Lisandro Martinez is arguably the only current option guaranteed a place in next season's squad. United have been linked with a number of options in that area and Ten Hag is keen to lower the age profile.

But there is an openness to recruit across the pitch and United will remain on their toes for reinforcements at full-back, in central midfield and in the wide attacking areas.