Rashford gave up signing Neves for £15 million due to lack of funds! Man United faces a half-billion loss after cup eliminations, winter window likely inactive

Man United had an opportunity to bring in Portuguese international Ruben Neves from Al Hilal for £15 million during the winter transfer period, but the Glazers view him as nearly 29 and too costly. Despite pledging support to new manager Carrick for buying players, it appears to be just lip service. The first team probably won’t engage in any transactions in the January window.

If Man United wants to reinforce the squad, they must first sell existing players, such as striker Zirkzee or midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. However, the club’s transfer department prefers to avoid complications, sticking to the status quo as the easiest path. Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stated: “Mainoo and Zirkzee’s situations are very quiet, Napoli remain interested in Mainoo but nothing has progressed because Man United hasn’t given the green light. Roma have pursued Zirkzee for two months, but Man United disagrees. If Man United agreed to a deal, Roma would be happy, but nothing has happened.”

Romano confirmed Man United’s winter window strategy is basically “do nothing” until a permanent head coach is appointed. He said: “Man United want to keep the current squad intact and wait until this summer’s window to make changes, when the official permanent manager will take charge.”

Sir Jim Ratcliffe currently faces some financial constraints, especially after Man United missed out on European competition this season and were knocked out early in both the English League Cup and FA Cup. Financial analysts warn this signals a £50 million loss in matchday revenue. Fans worry this will not only result in no signings in the winter window but may also lead the club to raise ticket prices, passing losses onto supporters.

The UK’s The Sun reported that this season Man United reclaimed some prime seats from longtime fans to use for VIP hospitality, catering to those willing to pay premium prices. VIP guests can enjoy various off-field entertainments before taking chauffeured rides to Old Trafford. For example, the matchday package for Saturday’s Manchester derby was priced between £499 and £699.

The game against Liverpool in May will be even more expensive, with prices reaching £1,499 per person! Some supporters fear the club may appropriate more of their long-held seats to boost revenue. Fans at Old Trafford have already hung banners against the Glazers, reading: “Jim (Ratcliffe) can’t handle it.”

Last season, Man United played 30 home matches, including 7 in the Europa League. The 2023/24 season has 25 home games, 33 in 2022/23, and 26 in 2021/22. Man United’s home match revenue is substantial, rivaled only by Tottenham in the Premier League, with both clubs earning over £5 million per game. Therefore, missing 10 home fixtures means a loss of £50 million in income!

It is well known that the Champions League guarantees lucrative earnings; this season, participating teams receive £50 million just for qualifying without playing a single match. The group stage ensures revenue from four home games plus performance bonuses. Arsenal, with six wins in the Champions League this season, has already earned £37.8 million.

For this reason, the Glazers and their executives have urged Carrick to secure European qualification next season. If the team fails to reach the Champions League, shirt sponsor Adidas will activate a £10 million penalty clause to reduce sponsorship payments.

To raise more funds, the Glazers are also selling their Ligue 1 club Nice. The team has been in turmoil this season, dropping to 14th place in the standings, just 4 points above the relegation zone, fighting to avoid the drop. The Glazers have lowered Nice’s asking price from €250 million to €200 million, but interest remains scarce.