Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Man Utd's first two signings of INEOS era may be clear after agents visit Old Trafford
Man Utd are laying the groundwork for a successful for summer transfer window of the INEOS regime.
Manchester United could already be laying the groundwork for the first two signings of the INEOS era after a pair of agents were spotted visiting Old Trafford last week. The Red Devils need a successful summer transfer window to shake off one of the worst seasons in the club's modern history.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has repeated his intentions to solve United's lacklustre recruitment record since becoming co-owner in February.
He has made those plans clear with a series of appointments as part of a hierarchy overhaul, with chief executive Richard Arnold and football director John Murtough among those to have left.
Jason Wilcox left his role as Southampton's director of football to become United's new technical director last month. Omar Berrada will leave Manchester City to become chief executive on July 13.
Dan Ashworth has also quit Newcastle United to replace Murtough as sporting director at Old Trafford, although he may not be in place in time to impact this summer.
With a new recruitment team in place, United will understand the importance of making a strong start to Ratcliffe's rebuild, and they might not be wasting any time.
The M16 giants are reportedly prioritising the addition of a new centre-back, central midfielder and striker, with any further activity set to rely on player sales.
Watch all the Premier League and Champions League drama unfold on TNT Sports
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
On Sunday, as United lost 1-0 against Arsenal, the agents of Fulham's Tosin Adarabioyo and RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko were in attendance ahead of expected summer moves.
United are reportedly attempting to hijack Newcastle's interest in Adarabioyo, who will become a free agent on July 1.
The 26-year-old represents a budget option to replace Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans, also out of contract, while Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire are also in the shop window.
Sesko was strongly linked with United before leaving RB Salzburg for their sister club in the Bundesliga last summer.
His agent may have been at Old Trafford for Arsenal, who are claimed to have shortlisted the 20-year-old as a potential striker signing.
However, United are also on the hunt to supply Rasmus Hojlund with much-needed competition next season. Anthony Martial's contract is due to expire, leaving a gap to fill.
Sesko has a £42million release clause, and Leipzig are said to be planning for life without him. The Premier League appears to be a likely destination, with Chelsea also linked.
As part of INEOS' efforts to make United's transfer dealings more efficient and effective, it wouldn't be a surprise if the club were active early this summer. Adarabioyo and Sesko would be good fits.