Manchester United can attract “quality players” this summer despite uncertainty over club ownership, manager Erik ten Hag has said.
He said it was difficult to convince players to move to Old Trafford after he took charge at the end of last season.
“I see a big difference from last year,” Ten Hag said.
“Now a lot of players see the project, what’s going on, the momentum and the ambition.”
Last summer, midfielder Casemiro joined from Real Madrid for £70m and United also signed midfielder Christian Eriksen, striker Antony and defenders Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia during the summer transfer window.
Dutch striker Cody Gakpo was heavily linked with a move from PSV Eindhoven in December before move to Liverpool.
Ten Hag said, “There were a lot of bookings last year, a lot of doubts when we approached players. This year, a lot of quality players really want to come.”
Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos group, who have tenders submitted for United, it’s the two main parties looking to take control.
United owners, the Glazer family, have yet to name a preferred bidder.
United need ‘courage’ for season break-in
United, who won the Carabao Cup in February, will face Manchester City in the FA Cup final on June 3.
They are fourth in the Premier League – which would guarantee Champions League football next season – with four games remaining, although Liverpool are just a point behind with three games remaining.
Ten Hag said: “We can gain confidence and believe because we have proven that we have beaten the best teams in the world.” It’s a test of courage if we can do it because we’re in the right position and now we have to finish it.
“It’s a high demand, so it takes high standards. The players and I have to take responsibility for that.”
De Gea’s uncertainty isn’t behind the form – Ten Hag
Goalkeeper David de Gea is in talks over a new contract, although there have been reports that he may not be the first choice next season.
The 32-year-old has been critical this season, most recently after his error proved decisive in the 1-0 league loss to West Ham last weekend.
Ten Hag said uncertainty over De Gea’s future was not the cause of his loss of form.
“Every top soccer player has a high demand,” Ten Hag said. “You have to accept it, deal with it, and the demand is that you have to perform.” I don’t think that’s a reason because David has so much experience. I can think of a thousand and one reasons but I don’t think that’s the reason.”
