Manchester United will reportedly be restricted to cheap transfers and loan deals in the January transfer window.
The Red Devils have struggled to find their best form in the 2023-24 campaign, having won six and lost five of their 11 Premier League games.
As a result, Erik ten Hag's side are currently sitting in eighth position and four points adrift of fifth place, which could be enough to secure Champions League football for next season.
They have also found it tough going on the European stage, with Wednesday's defeat to Copenhagen leaving them at the bottom of the group with three points to their name after four matches.
With Man United unable to find consistency in results and performances, they are expected to bring in reinforcements in the winter transfer window.
© Reuters
However, according to the Daily Mail, Ten Hag's January spending will be limited to cheap permanent transfers and loan deals.
The report claims that Financial Fair Play restrictions and uncertainty over the club's ownership will affect the funds available to Ten Hag.
INEOS owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is expected to purchase 25% of the club for £1.25bn, but the club are yet to ratify the deal.
Man United will look to improve their Financial Fair Play situation by offloading Jadon Sancho, who has been exiled from the squad following a public falling-out with Ten Hag.
However, it remains to be seen how much they will receive for the winger after paying £73m to buy him from Borussia Dortmund in 2021.
© Reuters
Despite having to work within a tight budget, Man United will look to sign a defender and a striker when the window opens in January.
They have been linked with a move for Ivan Toney, but Brentford's £100m price-tag would be out of Man United's reach.
In regards to their backline, the Red Devils have drawn up a shortlist which includes Nice's Jean-Clair Todibo and Bayer Leverkusen's Edmond Tapsoba.
They are also admirers of Giorgio Scalvini and Jarrad Branthwaite, who play for Atalanta BC and Everton respectively.