Ratcliffe still has big call to make on ETH

JANUARY is the month for change and United need to decide quite how much they need to make.

- RICHARD FAY

It is only natural that transfer dealings will take centre stage as the window reopens, but there are bigger decisions to be made first before any serious money can be spent.

The Reds are most likely to target loan signings this month as they eye short-term solutions, with the summer window already viewed as the first real opportunity for the Ineos group to make their presence known.

The club already drafted up provisional plans for the January window months ago and while Sir Jim Ratcliffe's delegation will want to approve any investments, they will need to have a proper sporting structure in place before serious transfer commitments can be made.

Another key aspect will be finalising their long-term plan. Ratcliffe is on a fact-finding mission in Manchester this week to gain priceless insight as well as meet those he will work alongside to try and return the club to its former glory.