Erik ten Hag reveals reason for his only January transfer window regret

Manchester United ended the mid-season transfer window without signing a new player.

Erik ten Hag has admitted he wanted to add a new striker to Manchester United’s squad in the winter transfer window.

United’s activity in the market was limited to sending several players on loan spells. Jadon Sancho returned to Borussia Dortmund, while Hannibal Mejbri and Donny van de Beek joined Sevilla and Eintracht Frankfurt, respectively.

While several strikers were linked with mid-season moves to United, the club ended up going into the second half of the campaign without a new signing.

Asked about United’s personnel issues on Friday, Ten Hag told reporters: “I think it’s not a secret that I wanted a striker extra.

“Because with the injury of Martial we don’t really have back-up there, but it was not possible because we have to match the FFP rules.”

Several Premier League sides, including Everton and Chelsea, are under investigation for breaching the Financial Fair Play (FPP) rules. Loan deals dominated the market as most clubs were concerned with the consequences of breaking the profit and sustainability regulations.

Asked how he plans to continue the season with his existing attacking options, Ten Hag added: “We have Omari, we have Amad Diallo, of course we have Rashford who can play there. We have to be a little bit creative if it’s up to the number nine position.”