Man United could show they have learnt a valuable lesson with £55m transfer

Manchester United have a big summer transfer window ahead of them as they prepare for a return to the Champions League

Manchester United are no strangers to mishaps in the transfer market. But since Ineos took charge of football operations, the recruitment team has been revamped and their recent business has been good.

Last summer now looks to be a massive success with Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens all improving the team. The arrivals of Mbeumo and Cunha were particularly refreshing as United finally did what fans have been crying out for - they signed proven Premier League stars.

However, one lesson has taken a long time for United to learn. For years, the Reds have been guilty of acting at the last possible moment to address issues that are blatantly obvious. This has led to panic buys and spending over the odds.

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Even since Ineos joined, that issue has not been addressed. For a long time, United have known that Casemiro would not be a long-term option in midfield and that Manuel Ugarte could not replace him.

Scott McTominay was sold to bring Ugarte to Old Trafford. That decision looks more and more puzzling but unfortunately for the Uruguay international, it seems his United days are numbered. The Reds are attempting to sell him this summer but it was clear before this season that Ugarte was not the solution.

And yet United have left it late to try and find Casemiro's replacement. Last summer, they asked about Carlos Baleba but a move for a defensive midfielder was put on ice.

United now need to act fast. There is no time to be patient. Casemiro is leaving and the Reds will have to spend big money to replace him.

That being said, United do seem to be moving in the right direction to ensure they are not caught out again. Reports this week suggest the Reds are looking at Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall.

Newcastle are in a precarious position this summer. They are without European football but with quality players who can play at that level.

That leaves the door open for opponents to swoop in and, with a number of their star players attracting interest, Newcastle's hand will likely be forced. Interest in Hall, who is said to be valued at around £55m, is particularly pleasing, as it seems United have finally identified a problem before it gets worse.

Luke Shaw has enjoyed a fantastic season. Few would have thought he would start every Premier League match at the start of the campaign. But the left-back has become undroppable for the Reds. Next season, he could remain United's first choice but the club should be looking to the future.

Soon, Shaw will not be at a level where he can be a regular starter, and the added workload next season could be an issue.

When that time comes, it would be wise to have a player like Hall ready to step up and take the club forward. Currently, Patrick Dorgu is the obvious alternative to Shaw but as we have seen since the turn of the year, the Denmark international is better suited further forward.

Having Hall in their ranks would mean Dorgu doesn't have to move from a position he looks more comfortable in and takes the pressure off Shaw, with United set to play closer to 60 games next season than the 40 they played this season.

Finally, it seems United are showing signs of being proactive rather than reactive.

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