According to Erik ten Hag, financial fair play (FFP) restrictions would bar Manchester United from signing a new striker during the January transfer window to fill the vacuum left by Anthony Martial’s extended absence.
Martial is out until April after groin surgery, but United, like several other top English clubs, appears to be more interested in reducing rather than bolstering their squad as they adjust to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
“I looked but there is no space,” said United manager Ten Hag. “No space on FFP to do something about this lack of quantity in the striker position.
“Of course, we have (Marcus) Rashford who can play as a striker, I think also we have some other alternatives, creative.
“It’s clear now Anthony is out for a couple of months. It’s a gap in our squad. Clear.”
Ten Hag was addressing to the media for the first time since United hired Omar Berrada from local rival Manchester City as their new CEO.
Berrada’s arrival at Old Trafford marks one of United’s first major signings since British businessman Jim Ratcliffe purchased a 25% share in the club for $1.3 billion.
United has been without a permanent CEO since Richard Arnold departed at the end of last year.
“It gives spirit in this whole club,” said Ten Hag of Berrada’s move.
“Everyone notices that this club is going into a period of changes but it’s because we want to achieve high targets, so standards have to change.”
The Dutchman added: “We understand we have to change, and we started that process last season with the dressing room.
“But also many departments so I am very happy that I get support.”
United’s short-term focus is on their FA Cup tie away to fourth-tier Newport on Sunday, with the knockout trophy representing their last remaining realistic hope of silverware this season.
The match is set to mark the long-awaited United debut of pre-season signing Altay Bayindir.
“Yeah, he will be in the goal,” Ten Hag said of the former Fenerbahce goalkeeper.
“He played in a big club in Turkey under big pressure, so he knows how to deal with it.
“We were all very convinced when we brought him into this club…We’re looking forward to Sunday. Altay, very motivated of course and he can’t wait for this moment.”