Incoming Manchester United head coach Mauricio Pochettino is expected to give the current squad a chance to impress before pushing for a significant rebuild, despite calls from former captain Gary Neville to demand immediate signings.
Pochettino will take charge in time for United's Premier League game at Liverpool on November 22. The club currently sit 18th in the table, with a lack of depth at left-back proving a problem this season while Benjamin Sesko's injury has left them short up front.
Neville's demand for January signings
Speaking on Stick to Football before the club confirmed Pochettino's appointment, Neville said: "He needs two defenders in January. So he's got to insist that he gets two defenders in January."
He added: "He's got to insist that he gets a minimum budget next summer for the transfer window to be able to turn this around. He's got to insist that he gets a budget that follows. They have to give it to him, or else he shouldn't take the job."
A more measured approach expected
According to The Athletic, however, Pochettino may take a more patient approach. An unnamed agent who knows the boss well anticipates a measured strategy.
"He's also shown as being a coach who'll work with what he's got, then make changes over three or four transfer windows," they said. "He doesn't demand six new players; he'll give players a chance, then start building steadily."
United have spent nine-figure sums in each of the last two summer transfer windows, but their January business has been less dramatic. Over the last five winter windows, Patrick Dorgu is the only player to join for more than £20million.
Pochettino on his United move
Pochettino spoke publicly about the move for the first time at a press conference, saying: "It was a really difficult decision, but we need to move forward. A big thank you from my heart."
"They know that it's not too many opportunities that can happen in your career like a side of Manchester United. Of course, when that arrives it is difficult to turn down the situation," he added.
