Man Utd's experience with Cristiano Ronaldo has left them reluctant to sign another big name on huge wages, leaving their pursuit of Neymar in doubt.
Reports in France suggested United were in 'active transfer talks' over a deal for the Brazilian, who has been tipped to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer as the club changes its strategy. The world record signing is said to have changed his mind over staying in the French capital after fans came to his home to voice their dissatisfaction.
Former United star Louis Saha warned the club over moving for the ex-Barcelona forward, but Erik ten Hag was non-committal when asked about this summer's transfer plans. Behind the scenes, though, there appear to be some doubts.
According to ESPN Deportes, United remain "traumatised" by what happened with Ronaldo. The Portuguese veteran re-joined United on a two-year deal in 2021, but left before its conclusion after slamming the club in an interview with Piers Morgan.
The Premier League side are said to be reluctant to bring in another highly paid star who could "cause problems" in the dressing room. Ronaldo left by mutual agreement in November 2022, and is now playing his club football in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr.
While United are said to have cooled whatever interest there might have been, ESPN suggests the opposite is true of Chelsea. Blues owner Todd Boehly is said to have been "tempted" by an offer to sign Neymar in January and reportedly met with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi over a potential deal.
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The loss of Ronaldo hasn't harmed United's top four prospects by any stretch. Ten Hag's side sat fifth in the table when the former Juventus man left the club, but ended up sealing third spot thanks to four victories in their last four games of the season.
Despite the strong finish, though, Ten Hag has hinted that he will need more investment in the team if the Red Devils are to improve their showing next term. “The club knows if you want to play top four and compete for trophies in this league, then you have to invest," the manager said after a final-day victory over Fulham.
“Otherwise you don’t have a chance, because other clubs will. We’ve seen it in the winter - all the clubs around us made huge investments. We didn't, but still we made it, so I’m proud of my team.”
United's only January business saw them bring in three players on loan - Jack Butland, Wout Weghorst and Marcel Sabitzer. Further investment is expected in the summer, but for now it appears Neymar will not be among the new additions.
