Manchester United will reportedly only be able to make loan signings during the January market.
The Red Devils had been strongly linked with a move for PSV Eindhoven's Cody Gakpo, but the Netherlands international is now on the verge of completing a switch to Liverpool.
Man United are looking to sign a new striker in January following Cristiano Ronaldo's recent exit, while there have also been claims that head coach Erik ten Hag wants a right-back to provide competition for Diogo Dalot.
However, according to the Daily Mail, the 20-time English champions will only be able to make loan signings in the winter market due to the current ownership situation at the club.
Last month, the Glazer family announced that they were open to selling the Red Devils.
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"Manchester United plc, one of the most successful and historic sports clubs in the world, announces today that the company's board of directors (the "board") is commencing a process to explore strategic alternatives for the club," read a statement on Man United's official website.
"The process is designed to enhance the club's future growth, with the ultimate goal of positioning the club to capitalize on opportunities both on the pitch and commercially.
"As part of this process, the board will consider all strategic alternatives, including new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the company.
"This will include an assessment of several initiatives to strengthen the club, including stadium and infrastructure redevelopment, and expansion of the club's commercial operations on a global scale, each in the context of enhancing the long-term success of the club's men's, women's and academy teams, and bringing benefits to fans and other stakeholders."
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The Glazers are allegedly therefore reluctant to sanction any big-money moves during the January market in what is a blow to Ten Hag's plans.
Man United are still said to be looking to boost their squad next month, but the club's recruitment department are currently only looking at the list of players who will be available on loan.
A recent report claimed that Joao Felix could be available on loan from Atletico Madrid in January, providing that the forward's proposed new club are able to take on his substantial wages.
Man United will be looking to make it four straight wins in all competitions when they resume their Premier League campaign at home to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night.
Matt Law
