Man Utd transfer chief John Murtough reveals club ‘WILL NOT be busy in January’, leaving fans shocked at striker shortage

MANCHESTER UNITED’s transfer chief has revealed the club ‘WILL NOT BE busy in January’ – leaving fans stunned.

The Red Devils need a new striker after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.

But director of football John Murtough dampened fan expectations.

Murtough said during a fan forum in December: “While we are exploring options, I don’t expect it to be a busy January window.

“January is a tough time to find players that teams are willing to let go.

“It’s no secret that we are looking for a new centre-forward.

“We will see what is possible in January, but we only want to bring in players who are good enough and who will make the team stronger.

“We are not going to sign players to make signings.

“You also need to remember that we invested over £200m in the squad last summer and as a club we need to stay financially disciplined and in line with FFP rules.

“As always, the focus remains on the summer window, and we are already well advanced in our planning for next summer.”

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Some fans were furious with the comments, however.

One replied: “Total rubbish, they’re basically canceling another season when United are in the top four and in all of their cup competitions.

“Last year he was expecting our new manager this summer, do these people think our fan base believes in their spin.”

Another said: “Lots of nonsense. Just pass the buck and save more money for the [Glazers].

And a third added: “I can’t wait for this man to be sacked – I couldn’t learn from the problems of last season.”

New manager Erik ten Hag has overseen huge spending this summer to bring in Christian Eriksen, Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia, Antony and Lisandro Martinez for over £200m.

But the Dutchman has made it clear he is still keen to bring in new signings, especially after smashing the recent club record in the window.

Ten Hag said: “The club have bought an unimaginable number of players in recent years who haven’t been good enough.

“Most of the buys have been average – and at United the average is not good enough.

“United’s jersey weighs heavy. Only real personalities, capable of performing under great pressure, can play here.”

The club were interested in landing Dutch World Cup star Cody Gakpo, but he instead joined Liverpool for £37m.

Joao Felix continues to be linked with a loan move while a return to Old Trafford for Memphis Depay remains on the cards.

But in terms of true No9s, United’s latest target is Burnley’s Wout Weghorst.

The 30-year-old is currently on loan at Besiktas in Turkey but the deal could be terminated to allow a temporary move to Theater of Dreams.