Finance guru salutes Richard Arnold as Man United transfer probe underway
Man United are “smart” to launch a review of their transfer policy.
So says finance expert Doctor Dan Plumley, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the latest developments behind the scenes at Old Trafford.
The Daily Mail reported last Friday (11 February) that new United CEO Richard Arnold will review the Red Devils’ long-term recruitment strategy.
It is understood that there is a feeling within the club bungled that they bungled the January transfer window.
A lack of cover meant Jesse Lingard was denied a loan move, which in turn led to a public spat with interim boss Ralf Rangnick.
One aspect of the transfer approach that is under review is the club’s broad policy not to make major signing in January.
Plumley claims that mid-season signings often do not represent good value but that United are correct to launch a review in any case.
“You can see where he’s coming from,” the Sheffield Hallam University expert told Football Insider‘s Adam Williams.
“The January window is often for short-term fixes and emergencies.
“It tends to be that the majority of money is spent by the bottom half of the Premier League and top half of the Championship.
“Most clubs are looking longer-term to do their business in yearly cycles. You see a lot more early deals in the summer.
“Because it’s such a short window, potential selling clubs have settled squads and don’t want to sell. Buying clubs are weighing up the risks and rewards.
“Both of those factors drive the price up but it all comes down to owners. If they are prepared to pay over the odds, they will sanction transfers.
“But a lot of them won’t and are always looking to the summer window.
“I can see the logic from United here. It’s smart to take a look at it at the very least. That way you can decide what strategy you’re going to take.”
Alexis Sanchez and Bruno Fernandes are United’s only two major acquisitions in the January window in recent years.
Rangnick’s side are up to 4th in the league table after victory over Brighton last night (15 February).
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