Manchester United are set for a quiet transfer deadline day after the signings of Antony and Martin Dubravka.
Erik ten Hag insisted the paperwork was not yet complete on his new £84million signing when speaking to the media on Wednesday, ahead of facing Leicester, as he stated the double deal would spell the “end” of United’s summer purchases.
While the United boss specified a quality over quantity aspect to his business, he explained why his desire for a high-intensity game made it necessary to get more bodies through the door.
“[In the] offense department we need to strengthen our squad,” he told reporters ahead of Antony’s impending arrival.
“We have many games to cover - from now on we go in three games a week. Especially from offensive players, they are quicker fatigued because they have to run more and run with higher intensity. We need numbers there, we need not just quantity but quality.”
Two players who will not be leaving United on deadline day are Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, despite reports of moves out of Old Trafford.
“Of course, Aaron will stay in,” said Ten Hag. “So this squad, we will go from September to minimum January but we will play with this squad this season.”
On Ronaldo staying, he insisted he was “clear”, adding: “I just said we need quality players.
“You need more to cover all the games, to keep the consistency going, that is what we strive for.”
